“A solution to the Cyprus Problem will be the biggest step or the most significant reform to the country’s economic growth for the coming decades,” stated President Nicos Anastasiades today (Tuesday), addressing a Summit organised by The Economist.
In his speech, the President referred to the Mont Pelerin, Switzerland-based talks, due to take place next week, which will mainly focus on the territory issue.
Anastasiades expressed his hope that both sides will travel to Switzerland having “the determination and goodwill to seize the moment,” and reach a solution within 2016.
The President pointed out that “we want a solution that will leave no winners or losers but one that will take into account both communities’ sensitivities and concerns.”
Anastasiades added that Cyprus “cannot afford to be divided [any longer],” and that “Turkey’s occupation and the problems the country faces will worsen over time.”
Anastasiades and Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci have been engaged in UN-led peace talks with the aim to reunite the island, divided since the 1974 Turkish invasion and illegal occupation, under a federal roof.
INVESTMENT PRIORITY
Referring to the island’s current economic state and its recovery following the adjustment programme, the President said that “attracting foreign investments remains a priority.”
He added that the government has introduced “decisive and effective structural changes” and that “Cyprus has already managed to significantly improve its position as a competitive destination.”
NPLs CHALLENGES
Regarding the banking sector, Anastasiades outlined that “the challenge is to deal with non-performing loans.”
He remarked that the government has provided a comprehensive legal framework for the restructuring process “to address the high NPLs number.”
President Anastasiades also referred to, inter alia, labour market reforms, pension reforms and welfare system changes.
MORE POWERFUL EUROPE
The President also mentioned within his speech that “Cyprus is ready to assist and work with its partners to build a new, more powerful Europe.”
He referred to the need to make “Europe more functional and send the message that the EU remains committed to its founding objectives and principles.”
REFUGEE CRISIS
He concluded his speech by referring to the ongoing refugee and migrant crises, saying that “we need to address the problem quickly and effectively, with solidarity and close cooperation.”
Source: CNA English
Read more here.
RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report
