The solution of the Cyprus problem will be “a powerful and positive model for all”, US President Barack Obama stated, in an interview to the Director of the Kathimerini newspaper Alexis Papachelas, that was published on Sunday in the Cyprus weekly edition of“Kathimerini”.

Obama was asked if he is hopeful that the Cyprus issue could be resolved by the end of his administration and why is it important to the US, and said today, the prospects for a lasting settlement on Cyprus are the best we’ve seen in many years. The parties, as he said, remain hard at work to achieve a bizonal, bicommunal federation that advances the interests of all Cypriots. “I applaud the effort that the Cypriot leaders have put into the negotiations so far, and I hope they can soon arrive at a durable solution that will benefit all Cypriots”.

Obama pointed out that a just and comprehensive solution for Cyprus would have historic and far-reaching impact and it would improve economic opportunities for all the people of Cyprus and enhance energy security in the Mediterranean region and beyond.

It would, he went on to say, create opportunities for US and European businesses – an alignment of interests that could be an engine for economic growth in the region and it could unlock new relationships and avenues of cooperation for Europe that would build on the decades-long project to make the continent freer, safer, and more prosperous.

“And it will demonstrate to the world today what can be achieved through dialogue, compromise, and diplomacy – a powerful and positive model for all”, he concluded.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and occupied 37% of its territory. Anastasiades and Akinci have been engaged in UN-led negotiations since May last year, with a view to reunite the island under a federal roof.