The settlement of the Cyprus problem would make a decisive contribution to strengthening stability and cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean, House of Representatives President Annita Demetriou said during a meeting with Albania’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Ferit Hoxha, who is on a working visit to Cyprus.
According to a press release issued by the House of Representatives, Demetriou underlined the Greek Cypriot side’s commitment to the resumption of meaningful negotiations aimed at achieving a comprehensive and sustainable settlement of the Cyprus issue, on the basis of international law, relevant United Nations resolutions, and the principles and values of the European Union.
She also expressed the expectation that Turkey would adopt a constructive stance in order to make the resumption of negotiations possible.
During the meeting, the House Speaker reaffirmed Cyprus’ steadfast support for the European perspective of the Western Balkan countries, stressing that the European Union’s enlargement policy constitutes a strategic investment in peace, stability and security in Europe.
Demetriou congratulated Albania on the progress it has achieved in its accession process and assured the Albanian Minister of Cyprus’ readiness to continue actively supporting these efforts.
Hoxha thanked Cyprus for its consistent support for Albania’s European course, as well as for the role played by the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union in advancing the enlargement process, the press release said.
The Albanian Minister also reaffirmed his country’s support for efforts to reach a solution to the Cyprus issue through dialogue, on the basis of international law and the principles of multilateralism.
The meeting also highlighted the role of parliamentary diplomacy and the need to further strengthen relations between the parliaments of Cyprus and Albania through increased exchanges at various levels.
The two sides exchanged views on regional and international developments, as well as on common challenges facing European states, including migration, energy security, defence and the maintenance of stability in the wider Mediterranean region, the press release concludes.