The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mrs Anita Demetriou, received today the Ambassador of Norway to Cyprus, based in Athens, Mr Frode Overland Andersen, during his working visit to Cyprus.
During the meeting, the relations of friendship between Cyprus and Norway based on common principles and values were underlined. A common will was expressed to further strengthen relations and cooperation between the two Parliaments, both at the bilateral and multilateral level.
The Speaker expressed sincere appreciation for Norway's principled positions on the Cyprus problem and efforts to resolve it. Demetriou stressed that the priority of the Greek Cypriot side is the immediate resumption of negotiations aimed at the reunification of Cyprus in conditions of peace and security. The Norwegian Ambassador reaffirmed his country's principled stance on the Cyprus problem.
Referring to the issue of migration, Demetriou noted that Cyprus receives the largest number of asylum seekers in proportion to population among the EU member states due to the instrumentalisation of the migration issue by Turkey, which systematically channels illegal immigrants through the occupied territories to the areas under the control of the Republic of Cyprus.
With regard to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the President of the Parliament stressed the importance of all countries adhering to common European principles and values in order to deal collectively and unitedly with its multifaceted consequences. For his part, Mr Andersen underlined that Norway was in line with the sanctions imposed by the European Union against Russia, regardless of the consequences for his country.
In addition, there was an exchange of views on issues of broader common interest, with particular emphasis on gender equality, the climate crisis and the optimal use of alternative energy sources. Ms Demetriou noted that Norway is a model country in terms of gender equality. Noting the under-representation of Cypriot women in decision-making centres, Demetriou stressed that promoting the empowerment of women and their balanced representation in political life is among the immediate priorities of the House of Representatives.
(Text as sent by the House of Representatives)
Contents of this article including associated images are owned by PIO
Views & opinions expressed are those of the author and/or PIO
Source
