Press Releases

The President of the Republic, Mr Nikos Christodoulides, attented last night the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry Business Leader Awards.

Upon his arrival, the President of the Republic made statements to the journalists. In reply to a question related to the humanitarian sea corridor to Gaza through Cyprus, the President of the Republic said that consultations are at an advanced stage and added: «We have already been contacted by many European Union member-states. The Minister of Foreign Affairs was in Jordan and Palestine. We are also in contact with the government of Israel and we hope that in the immediate future there will be developments in that direction. The Cyprus Government, as I said many times, is the EU member-state that is in proximity to the area and has excellent relations with all the states. This initiative was proposed when I was in Cairo and on the same day in Israel. It is an initiative that was welcomed by the EU. We informed the government of the United States and we hope it can soon be realised».

Asked whether Israel is positive towards such a development, the President of the Republic said: «When I informed the Israeli Prime Minister, he wasn’t negative towards that perspective. He asked to learn about some details, I briefed him, and we are in contact, as I mentioned earlier».

In reply to a relevant question, President Christodoulides said: «Concerning the envoy, we have given our approval, as I said last week. I hope that other parties involved will also give their consent so that this week the Secretary-General will announce the name of the envoy». President Christodoulides added: «Mr Lacroix’s arrival is also related to the situation in Pyla. As you know, the relevant consensus has been reached, implementation has begun. Possibly he will come here to see how the implementation of all this is progressing».

Finally, asked to answer if he is aware about the stance of the other side in relation with the representative, the President of the Republic answered: “No, im not aware. We will be waiting to hear the announcements of the Secretary-General”.

(NZ)