The Speaker of the House of Representatives Mrs.Anita Demetriou received today the Ambassador of Slovakia to Cyprus Mr.Martin Bezák.During the meeting, the close friendly relations between Cyprus and Slovakia, based on common principles and values and their common European identity, were underlined. A common will was also expressed to further strengthen cooperation between them, especially in the parliamentary framework.
The President of the Parliament expressed sincere appreciation for Slovakia's principled positions on the Cyprus problem and for its significant contribution to the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus, as well as for the contribution of the Slovak Embassy in Cyprus to the intercommunal dialogue at the level of political party leaders from both communities. Mr Bezák reaffirmed his country's principled stance on the Cyprus problem and on efforts to resolve it, in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
The Speaker underlined the commitment of the Greek Cypriot side to the efforts for the immediate resumption of negotiations, aiming at the reunification of Cyprus in conditions of peace and security. Demetriou condemned the new provocative actions taken by the occupying regime in the enclosed area of Famagusta and stressed that the international community must not forget that Cyprus has been suffering for forty-eight years of flagrant violations of international law and human rights, as a result of the Turkish invasion and continued occupation of part of its territory.
During the meeting, the tragic situation experienced by the Ukrainian people was discussed and the need for a common European response to the painful consequences of the Russian invasion of Ukraine was highlighted. Ms Demetriou stressed that Cyprus is actively demonstrating solidarity with Ukrainian refugees, despite the disproportionate migratory pressures it faces compared to its population, due to the instrumentalisation of the migration issue by Turkey, which channels irregular migrants into the Republic of Cyprus through the occupied territories. He stressed the need for a common European response to these humanitarian issues and support for the frontline countries receiving refugees and migrants.
(Text as sent by the House of Representatives)
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