Press Releases

The President of the Republic, Mr Nicos Anastasiades, received the credentials of the new Ambassador of Italy, Ms Federica Ferrari Bravo, during a formal ceremony held at the Presidential Palace on Thursday, 31 March 2022. Ms Bravo, presented her credentials speaking in Italian.

Receiving the credentials, the President said:

“It is with distinct pleasure and sincere feelings of friendship that I receive today your Letters of Credence, appointing you as the new Ambassador of the Italian Republic to the Republic of Cyprus. Please accept my sincere congratulations for your appointment, along with my best wishes for every success in your important work. I would also like to assure you that my Government, and I personally, will provide you with every possible assistance in the performance of your high duties.

Cyprus and Italy share strong bonds of friendship, which go back in history. The Venetian era bridges, as well as the emblematic Venetian walls of Nicosia, which form part of Cyprus’ historic and cultural mosaic, witness the rich and continuous cultural interaction of our peoples. The strong cross-cultural links between our two countries are also testified in the work of the great poets of the Italian Renaissance such as Dante, Boccaccio and Petrarca.

Our Mediterranean heritage binds us together in history the way our common European identity has been the compass in our bilateral relations in modern times. The Republic of Cyprus and the Italian Republic, both Member States of the European Union, have expanded and intensified their cooperation in a wide range of fields, through a dynamic dialogue on a bilateral, European and international level.

We consider Italy to be one of Cyprus’ most valued partners as we work together to address the most pressing challenges Europe is currently faced with and attain shared goals. Moreover, sharing the same objectives on the future of our common Mediterranean Sea, our active participation in the Med Group provides us the platform to tackle common challenges and realities that affect our region.

In this regard, I look forward to working closely with you, Excellency, in order to build upon the excellent and friendly bilateral cooperation that exists between Cyprus and Italy, and expand even further our collaboration in a wide array of fields.

During these worrisome times with the Russian invasion of Ukraine, we stand by Ukraine, conveying our strong support and respect to its territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence. What is of utmost importance at this point is to secure, through diplomacy and dialogue, the immediate ceasefire to stop the tragic loss of innocent lives.

Cyprus and its people have their own tragic experiences of foreign invasion, following the illegal Turkish military invasion and occupation since 1974, and until today our country still suffers from its devastating effects.

Having said that, I would like to express my deep appreciation for Italy’s principled stance on the Cyprus issue and your country’s consistent support on our efforts to reach a comprehensive settlement, based on a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation, with political equality as defined in UN resolutions.     

Italy’s support is greatly valued and appreciated by Cyprus, and one that we continue to count on, especially in light of Turkey’s declared position for a “two-state” solution and its overall aggressive behaviour towards our country, in blatant disregard of international law.

As you know very well, Excellency, Turkey continues unabated with its illegal plans in the fenced area of Varosha, in full defiance of the relevant Security Council resolutions, despite the strong condemnation by the international community and its repeated calls for the immediate reversal of this course of action.

In spite of Turkey’s continued provocations, our side remains focused in creating conducive conditions for the resumption of the negotiating process the soonest possible. To this end, I have put forward a proposal consisting of win-win and far-reaching Confidence Building Measures to end the ongoing impasse and pave the way for peace talks to resume. Within this context, I am confident that this set of CBMs can build trust and greater cooperation between the two communities and serve as a catalyst for the effort to reach a lasting solution of the Cyprus problem.

What I want to assure you, Ambassador, is of my strong commitment and determination to engage once again in results-oriented negotiations for a settlement on the Cyprus issue that will address the legitimate concerns and safeguard the rights of both sides.

In closing, I wish to assure you yet again of my Government’s full support in the discharge of your important duties. I would also kindly request that you convey to His Excellency President Sergio Mattarella and the friendly people of Italy, my warmest greetings and a message of friendship and solidarity.

Ambassador Ferrari Bravo, I warmly welcome you to Cyprus and I wish you a fruitful and successful tenure”.

(EK/SCH)