The critical juncture we are in the negotiation process for a solution of the Cyprus problem, requires bold political decisions, said Saturday President Nicos Anastasiades, at the unveiling of a bust in honour of the Lebanese philosopher Gibran Khalil Gibran in Limassol.

“As you all know, we are at a critical juncture in the negotiation process for the solution of the Cyprus problem, which requires bold political decisions. A solution, which, as we have so many times repeated, needs to take into account the legitimate sensitivities and concerns of both communities of Cyprus, leaving neither winners nor losers,” he said.

The President reiterated that he remains committed and determined to reach a comprehensive and viable settlement to the Cyprus problem. He also expressed his sincere appreciation for Lebanon’s unwavering support in Cyprus` efforts through the years.

Referring to the relations between Cyprus and Lebanon, he said that the people of Cyprus will always be grateful for Lebanon’s support in the aftermath of the Turkish military invasion in 1974.

He added that Cyprus, in its part, provided a safe destination to thousands of Lebanese refugees fleeing the civil war, many of whom opted to settle in Cyprus.

“Only those who have experienced first-hand the deprivation of war and invasion, and the resulting sense of loss, can truly appreciate what others in a similar predicament are going through. These circumstances created a special bond between the people of Cyprus and Lebanon”, he said.

He also noted that Cyprus and Lebanon have historically enjoyed excellent bilateral relations and a mutually beneficial cooperation.

“I wish to assure you that my Government is resolved to expand these sound relations which are essential in ensuring stability, security and prosperity in our region. I am confident that our partnership will be further strengthened as we already explore new areas of cooperation between the two countries in an array of fields such us tourism, education and energy, always within a spirit of mutual understanding and respect”, he said.

He also reaffirmed, that in Cyprus, as an EU member, Lebanon has a strong ally promoting the importance of the partnership between Lebanon and the European Union.

The President sent a message of peace and hope for Cyprus and the new generations, “similar to those expressed in Gibran’s writings”.

“Khalil Gibran once said `Yesterday is but today’s memory, and tomorrow is today’s dream`. My dream is to see the reunification of my island. Of our island”, the President concluded.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and occupied 37% of its territory. President Anastasiades and Turkish Cypriot leader Akinci have been engaged in UN-led talks since May 2015, with a view to reunite the island under a federal roof.

The two leaders decided that they will meet in Geneva on the 9th of January 2017, on the 11th of January they will present their respective maps and that from the 12th of January, a Conference on Cyprus will be convened with the added participation of the guarantor powers, while other relevant parties shall be invited as needed.