Lavrov and Anastasiades discuss progress of Cypriot-Russian relations

Cypriot president Nicos Anastasiades has discussed the latest development in the ongoing Cyprus problem talks and bilateral relations with Russia, during a meeting he had with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the side-lines of the UN General Assembly in New York on Tuesday.

Welcoming the President, Lavrov said the two will also be able to see how a number of issues agreed during Anastasiades’ visit to Moscow are progressing.

In remarks, President Anastasiades said the meeting is “part of the contacts we are holding at the United Nations to inform on the current state of affairs”.

At the same time, he added, they examined the prospects and the need to continue with Russia’s support and contribution in the “great effort we are making” for a Cyprus solution.

He also said that there was complete understanding on Lavrov’s part, adding the two also exchanged views on some issues of bilateral interest.

Government sources said that these issues include the avoidance of double taxation, judicial contribution and other issues.

EU – Russia relations

Replying to questions by Russian journalists regarding the EU – Russia relations, President Anastasiades spoke of the need to normalise them and Cyprus is working towards this.

“We believe that the Minsk process is the only way. Sanctions do not offer the chance for dialogue and problem resolution. On the contrary, they keep the parties apart”, he added.

He said that sanctions are imposed on one party which in turn takes counter-measures.

“Those who pay the price are small member states”, the President added.

The Cypriot President also met with the President of the Palestinian Authority Mahmoud Abbas.

Anastasiades had spoken at the Concordia summit on Monday.

The Cyprus problem has also been on the agenda of UK Prime Minister Theresa May and UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon, as both discussed the ongoing peace talks during their one-on-one meeting earlier on Tuesday.

Source: CNA