President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades has affirmed the Government’s resolve to judiciously implement, without delays, the Memorandum of Understanding agreed with the Troika with the overall aim of returning to a sustainable growth path. The President made the remark during the presentation of the credentials of the new Ambassador of the Republic of Portugal, Joao Manuel Pina Perestrello Cavaco during a formal ceremony at the Presidential Palace.
Presenting his credentials, Cavaco said he hoped to contribute to further advance relations but also through a common clear belief in a more intense and open cooperation and follow up of developments elsewhere, including in this important region in the vicinity of the East Mediterranean and the Middle East. He also said it was a point of deep satisfaction that he takes function as Ambassador at an historical moment where Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots have started, under the President`s initiative, new talks with a view to bringing the country together and to advance in close cooperation the cause of progress of Cyprus and its people, irrespective of ethnic origin. May I also express my appreciation with the circumstance that through this appointment, notwithstanding extensive cuts and reductions in Embassies and their staff operated by my Authorities following the financial crisis, we witness here today the representation of Portugal in Cyprus at the level of Ambassador being restored , reciprocating the gesture of Your Excellency in honouring us with a representation of Cyprus at ambassadorial level, through our good friend Ambassador Thalia Petrides.
As regards exchanges between the Authorities of both countries, he expressed the conviction that they will continue for a possible deepening of relations. Replying President Anastasiades expressed satisfaction with the excellent level of bilateral relations that the two countries enjoy, noting that as reliable partners, Cyprus and Portugal enjoy high-level cooperation and mutual support at the bilateral and international levels, as well as within the framework of the European Union. The visit of Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides to Portugal in September 2013, as well as the recent visit of the Portuguese State Secretary for European Affairs to Cyprus, Bruno Maçães, in February 2014 have reaffirmed the excellent level of our bilateral relations. Additionally, the signing of a Memorandum on Political Consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs in September 2013 is expected to further deepen the bilateral ties between Cyprus and Portugal, President Anastasiades said, adding the coming into force in August 2013 of the Agreement on the Avoidance of Double Taxation is expected to assist in improving investment and business relations between our two countries.
Regarding Cyprus’ economy, President Anastasiades reaffirmed the “Government’s resolve to judiciously implement, without delays, the Memorandum of Understanding agreed with the Troika with the overall aim of returning to a sustainable growth path”. He said he was pleased that this commitment is recognized by the Troika, following the 3rd review mission to Cyprus, “which also acknowledged that Cyprus’ programme remains on track. Our commitment is also recognized by the Eurogroup”. President Anastasiades said in general, the economy is expected to improve this year and the next, noting that despite the positive results, “the Government is fully aware of the challenges ahead and is taking measures that aim to reinvigorate the economy, boost investments and create jobs”. A campaign has been initiated to attract foreign investments. Measures have also been taken to support SMEs, tackle rising unemployment, support the tourism industry and promote social cohesion.
President Anastasiades said “the way forward is not easy, but I have absolute confidence that the spirit of unity and the drive to succeed already demonstrated by the people of Cyprus, will prevail”. Regarding the Cyprus issue, President Anastasiades said the adoption of the Joint Declaration on 11 February 2014, paved the way for the resumption of full-fledged negotiations between the two communities, under the aegis of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, aiming at a comprehensive solution of the Cyprus problem, in accordance with the High Level Agreements, the United Nations Security Council Resolutions and the EU principles and values. The Government of Cyprus, he said, “is determined to engage in a result oriented negotiating process with a view to achieving a settlement which will serve, above all, the legitimate interests of the Cypriot people; a settlement which will secure the unity of our country and the respect of the fundamental freedoms and human rights of all its citizens”. He further expressed gratitude for the Portuguese Republic’s principled stance on the Cyprus issue and to reiterate the determination of my Government for taking decisive steps in order to find a solution that will provide a prosperous future for all Cypriots.
