US President Barack Obama has described as an historic opportunity the talks for a Cyprus solution, noting the US is deeply committed to supporting the settlement process.
In a congratulatory message to the President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades on the occasion of the 55th anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Cyprus, Obama said “we value our enduring partnership with the Republic of Cyprus. I am pleased that over the last year we have strengthened our ties, worked to promote peace and counter extremism in the region, and fostered opportunities for greater bilateral trade and investment”.
He congratulated President Anastasiades “on the remarkable progress being made towards a settlement to reunify the island as a bizonal, bicommunal federation”.
“This is an historic opportunity to forge a better future for all Cypriots”, he said, adding “the Unites States is deeply committed to supporting the settlement process, and we encourage you to continue efforts towards achieving a lasting peace.”
Congratulatory messages were sent, among others, by the King of Sweden Carl Gustaf, the President of Ireland Michael Higgins, the President of Romania Klaus Werner Iohannis, the President of the Czech Republic Milos Zeman, the Governor – General of Australia Peter Cosgrove, the President of Algeria Abdelaziz Bouteflika, the President of Palestine Mahmoud Abbas.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded and occupied the island`s northern third. UN-led talks, aiming to reunite the island under a federal roof, resumed on May 15, this year.
CNA/EC/GV/2015
ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY