Cypriot Minister of Interior Eleni Mavrou met Wednesday with her British counterpart Theresa May with whom she discussed issues concerning the Cyprus Presidency of the EU Council as well as issues of bilateral interest.

 The Common European Asylum System (CEAS), an issue of priority for the Cypriot presidency, was the main subject of discussion. Reviewing the progress achieved during Cyprus Presidency, Mavrou welcomed the important work being done by the Council and the European Parliament, especially on the Directive on Reception Conditions of asylum seekers in EU Member States

 Mavrou expressed hope that the momentum created will continue, in order to reach a final agreement on the creation of CEAS, until the end of the Cyprus Presidency.

 The discussion was focused on the Roadmap for EU illegal immigration and free movement, adopted by the Justice and Home Affairs Council of the EU in April 2012. The Cypriot Minister assured her British counterpart that Cyprus Presidency, in cooperation with its EU – partners, will work hard to promote and implement the provisions of the Road Map towards a comprehensive response to the challenges posed by illegal immigration.

 The Ministers also reviewed the situation in Syria and the humanitarian aspect of the matter. During the discussions they reaffirmed the need for all Member States and international organizations involved, to work together for a common response to the humanitarian crisis that may arise due to the escalation of violence in the country, particularly in support of countries neighboring Syria that are likely to accept displaced persons.