A delegation of the UK`s Liberal Party`s and the National Liberal Club – Commonwealth Forum have discussed the Cyprus problem during meetings they had at the Cyprus Parliament with Lord Monroe Palmer Deputy Speaker of the House of Lords, who heads the delegation, noting the UK`s readiness to encourage the efforts for a solution.

The delegation is paying Cyprus a visit between 10 and 14 October, a House of Representatives press release says.

During a meeting with the delegation House of Representatives, Speaker Demetris Syllouris underlined that the Cyprus problem`s substances was and continues to be the invasion and continued illegal occupation of part of the Republic of Cyprus` territory by Turkey.

Syllouris expressed pessimism over the prospects for a Cyprus solution in light of the increased intransigence and aggressive behaviour of Turkey “which increases the tension in the region.” At the same time he reiterated “the true willingness and readiness of the Greek Cypriot side to continue efforts for a just and viable solution of the Cyprus problem in accordance with international law and the relevant UN resolutions,” the press release adds.

Cyprus, he noted, looks forward to the UK`s support in real terms towards this direction, in its capacity as a UN Security Council permanent member and in view of its special relationship with the Republic of Cyprus.

Bilateral relations especially after Brexit, were also discussed.

The UK delegation also had a meeting with President of the parliamentary committee of Foreign and European Affairs Yiorgos Lillikas and committee members, MPs Nicos Tornaritis and Adamos Adamou, during which the Cyprus problem was also discussed.

Lord Palmer, the press release says, “noted the UK`s readiness to encourage the efforts for a Cyprus solution.”

Members of the Liberal Party also reiterated its position on the Cyprus problem, that is to say, “the need for an immediate withdrawal of all foreign troops and military equipment and ending restrictions which concern the free movement and establishment of citizens in the island as well as on property,” it adds.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017, at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.

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