The Republic of Cyprus will not allow Turkey to affect Cyprus’ EU presidency in the second semester of 2012, not overlooking however the seriousness of the Turkish threats against the assumption of the EU Presidency by Cyprus, Deputy Minister to the President for European Affairs Andreas Mavroyiannis has said.

Addressing a workshop organized Saturday by the ruling left-wing AKEL party on “Cyprus Presidency of the EU Council in 2012”, Mavroyiannis noted that with the assumption of the Presidency of the European Council, Cyprus will face a major challenges as an EU state and a unique opportunity to build the image of a credible, equal and responsible social European partner.

According to Mavroyiannis, a successful exercise of the EU Presidency would bring lasting benefits to Cyprus and project a positive image of the country in the world. It is also, he added said, a challenge for the state services, taking into accounts the efforts towards economic recovery.