Friday, April 6, 2012
Prime Minister Lucas Papademos embarked yesterday on a two-day official visit to Cyprus, where he met with Cyprus President Demetris Christofias. At a press conference, following the meeting, Papademos said that close cooperation between Cyprus and Greece is the cornerstone of Athens' policy as regards the Cyprus issue, adding that the positions of both countries on this are identical and that "artificially set timetables and plans B are counter-productive."
Papademos also noted that Turkish threats against Cyprus’ sovereign rights to explore and exploit its hydrocarbon reserves in its Exclusive Economic Zone, are condemnable, adding further that Greece is considering signing agreements to delineate its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) with Egypt and Cyprus, indicating that Athens has already signed agreements with Italy and Albania.
On his part, President Christofias said that "a solution of the Cyprus problem should restore human rights and fundamental freedoms for all Cyprus and strengthen the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Cyprus," urging Turkey to fulfill its obligations and respect EU institutions. The PM also held meetings with leaders of Cypriot parliamentary parties and attended an official dinner in his honour.
On his part, President Christofias said that "a solution of the Cyprus problem should restore human rights and fundamental freedoms for all Cyprus and strengthen the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Cyprus," urging Turkey to fulfill its obligations and respect EU institutions. The PM also held meetings with leaders of Cypriot parliamentary parties and attended an official dinner in his honour.
Prime Minister. GR: Joint Statements with President Christofias (in Greek)
