The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, continues to receive congratulatory messages from leaders around the world on the occasion of the national anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Cyprus.
On Wednesday, President of Italy Sergio Mattarella sent a congratulatory message. In his message, the Italian President noted, among other things, that ‘Nicosia and Rome are bound by a strong friendship, which I had the privilege of witnessing personally during my visit to your country last year.’
‘Renewing the hope that a solution may soon be found for the best possible coexistence of communities in Cyprus within the framework of the relevant UN resolutions, I extend my warmest wishes for the prosperity of both yourself, Mr. President, and your fellow citizens,’ he said.
According to the Presidency, a congratulatory message was also sent by Pope Leo XIV. In his message, Pope Leo expressed his assurance ‘of my prayers for all in your country as it celebrates 65 years of independence. I ask Almighty God to strengthen Cyprus as it strives to preserve peace and promote the legitimate aspirations of all.’
President Christodoulides also received a congratulatory message from King Charles III of the United Kingdom. In his message, King Charles stated, among other things: ‘My spouse and I extend our warmest congratulations to you personally and to the people of the Republic of Cyprus on the occasion of Independence Day.’
He noted that while relations between the two countries continue to grow stronger, collective action is imperative in addressing the consequences of climate change. ‘My thoughts are with all those affected by the devastating fires in Cyprus, and I am grateful that British forces were able to support your competent Services in their efforts,’ he added.
Among others, congratulatory messages were also sent by King Carl Gustaf of Sweden, King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain, Emir of Qatar Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Governor-General of Australia Sam Mostyn, President of Serbia Aleksandar Vucic, President of the Czech Republic Petr Pavel, President of Switzerland Karin Keller-Sutter, President of Peru Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra, President of Ghana John Dramani Mahama, and President of Cuba Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez.
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.