Dear Nikos,
I would like to warmly congratulate you on the 61st anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Cyprus.
Cyprus, a member state of the United Nations and the European Union, despite the ongoing illegal Turkish occupation of over one third of its territory, continues to remain firmly on the trajectory of the most developed societies, to maintain and strengthen the excellent relations it has built with most countries in the wider region, both bilaterally and in the framework of our common multilateral regional partnerships.
On this occasion, I would like to praise the Republic of Cyprus for its commitment to reach a mutually acceptable and comprehensive, just, viable and functional solution to the Cyprus issue, based on the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions and the European acquis. A commitment which, I am sure, does not bend under the ongoing Turkish efforts to impose new fait accomplis in Varosha and the Cypriot maritime zones, but also by Turkey’s insistence on its completely unacceptable demands for a so-called “solution” of two separate states or a confederation.
I would also like to assure you that Greece will continue to firmly support the Republic of Cyprus in its efforts to resume negotiations so as to reach a mutually acceptable and comprehensive solution of a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation, with single sovereignty, single international personality and single citizenship as provided for in the binding for all UN Security Council Resolutions. A solution that will ensure the rights of all Cypriot citizens, Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, through the application of the European acquis throughout Cyprus. A solution that will fulfil the vision of the Cypriot people to live in a reunited Republic of Cyprus, free from the occupying troops and the anachronistic system of guarantees and third-country intervention rights.
Dear Nikos, the continuous cooperation and the close coordination between Greece and Cyprus constitute the best guarantee for the achievement of our common goal.