President Demetris Christofias has expressed certainty that, in spite of the global financial crisis, the sound basis of Cyprus’ economic relations with Russia will not be affected but on the contrary will be reinforced.

Addressing an event organised by the Cyprus-Russian Friendship Association to mark 50 years since its establishment, President Christofias said that Cyprus constitutes an important business and economic hub which attracts the interest of Russian investors. He said that the Russian community in Cyprus has particular dynamism while the influx of tourists from Russia has increased by 50% compared to last year.

Christofias pointed out that the Soviet Union and later on the Russian Federation have consistently supported Cyprus’ struggle for a settlement of the Cyprus problem on the basis of principles and expressed the appreciation and the gratitude of the people of Cyprus for the constant and firm position of principles of the Russian Federation, which as a Permanent Member of the Security Council defends the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus. This is an invaluable solidarity, he stressed.

The President said that the cooperation of Cyprus and Russia in the political field is not confined to the political level only but it also extends to the international level, in the framework of international organizations.

He noted that political cooperation is reinforced by enhanced financial relations, in investment and tourism, trade and culture.

President Christofias underlined the importance which the government attributes to the development of relations and ties of friendship between the two peoples, noting that these relations have reached an admirable level. He referred to agreements signed between the two countries during Russian President Dmitry Medvedev’s visit to Cyprus in 2011.

Christofias commended the work of the Cyprus-Russian Association, noting that it constitutes the liaison of the Russian community in Cyprus, with over 60.00 persons, with Cypriot society.

The President of Cyprus assured that “we will continue to build on the sound foundations which we all have established through a collective effort”, adding that “our goal is to continue and to boost bilateral cooperation, based on relations of sincere friendship and solidarity which have proved to be very strong throughout the years.”