Nabeel Shaath, the Palestinian President`s envoy expressed on Tuesday support for an independent Cyprus, while noting that ongoing efforts by Palestinians and Cypriots have the same objective and face similar problems.
He meet this morning in Nicosia with Cyprus Archbishop Chrysostomos II, with the two men exchanging views on Cyprus and Palestine. According to the Primate of the Church of Cyprus “the relations between the two countries are very close”.
Speaking after the meeting, at the Archbishop`s Palace, Chysostomos II said that the Palestinian side stands by Cyprus and its problems and retains close ties with the Church and the Orthodox Patriarchate in Jerusalem.
He also expressed support to the right of the Palestinians to live in the land of their fathers and said that Cyprus and Palestine must find peace soon.
The Palestinian official expressed from his part appreciation for the support of the people, the Church and the government of Cyprus to the Palestinian people and to their right to self-determination.
We also share the commitment to see Cyprus independent, with territorial integrity, unity, peace and prosperity, he went on.
He further referred to the forthcoming visit of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, noting that the exact date has not been fixed, but it will take place soon.
“Our historical relationship will be always translated into future cooperation” Shaath noted.
Earlier, the Palestinian official, who is also the Commissioner General at Fateh foreign relations commission, met with the leader of the Democratic Rally party, Averof Neophytou, at the party headquarters. No statements were made after the meeting.
Cyprus has been divided since the 1974 Turkish invasion. UN-led talks are currently underway to find a negotiated settlement to reunite the country.
CNA/AGK/GCH 2016
ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY