Japan will continue its contribution to a peaceful and viable solution of the Cyprus issue based on the related UN resolutions, new Ambassador of Japan in Nicosia Satoshi Iwasaki said on Friday, presenting his credentials to President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, at the Presidential Palace.
“I would like to confirm the position of the government of Japan regarding the Cyprus problem. My government will continue its contribution to a peaceful and viable solution based on the related UN resolutions as a member of the G7 and the UN so that the people of Cyprus may live in a secure environment”, the Ambassador stressed.
The Cypriot President said that Cyprus deeply appreciates Japan’s principled position on the Cyprus question and its steadfast support for the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus, in line with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and international law.
“We also commend Japan’s constructive contribution as a non-permanent member of the Security Council during 2023-2024,” he said.
Referring to the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2026, President Christodoulides said that Cyprus looks forward to working together to further strengthen the EU- Japan Strategic Partnership and to contribute jointly to global peace, stability and prosperity.
Concluding, the President said that Cyprus very much looks forward to further deepening the collaboration with Japan through the implementation of existing agreements and the conclusion of those under consideration, including on air services, avoidance of double taxation, academic recognition, and protection of cultural heritage.
In his speech, the Japanese Ambassador also said that as the fourth Ambassador of Japan residing in Cyprus, he is determined to dedicate himself to explore the untapped potential and opportunities for further strengthening the existing friendly relations between the two countries, including in such fields as politics, economy, trade, culture, education, science and technology as well as in people to people contacts.
The Ambassador said that the active high level exchange and visits between officials from both governments and parliamentarians are one of the utmost importance.
Finally, he wished Cyprus every success in fulfilling its duties during the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.