The current positive atmosphere in Cyprus talks brings with it renewed hope, the British High Commissioner Ric Todd has said.
In his welcome address at the Queen`s Birthday Party in Nicosia, Todd said that “the current positive atmosphere cannot go unnoticed. It brings with it renewed hope. I would like to praise the two leaders for their courage and assure them of our support”.
Addressing the Foreign Minister of Cyprus Ioannis Kasoulides who was also present at the event, British High Commissioner said “your presence here is one more proof of the strength of the bilateral relationship: The UK/Cyprus partnership has gone from strength to strength and we are working together on many issues in so many areas that affect both our countries”.
He went on to say that “Cyprus is a unique place. Its cultural heritage from Kourion to Bellapais and Othello tower to Paphos is an asset for humanity. The relationship between the British and Cypriots is special. The UK is a physical and emotional second home for many Cypriots”.
“Many Britons feel at home or have made their home in Cyprus. It is shaped by history. It is deep and emotional. But the relationship between Britain and Cyprus is not just in the past. It is in the present. It is for the future. Your presence this evening here, Minister, Ladies and Gentleman is a symbol of this”, he conclude.
Cyprus was divided in 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. UN backed talks are currently underway between Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades and Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci, aiming to reunify the island under a federal roof