New York, 23 September 2008
Following his meeting in New York with Foreign Minister Ms. D. Bakoyannis, the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. D. Christofias made the following statement:
It was a pleasure to meet with Greece’s Foreign Minister to look at issues of common concern. We gave a detailed briefing on the progress of the talks, their positive aspects and the problems we are faced with, and we exchanged views on where we are heading, where the other side is heading. Ms. Bakoyannis also briefed me on her own efforts with regard to the issue of FYROM. Of course, we also discussed common European issues and our joint action within the European Union. It was indeed my pleasure to meet with the Greek Minister and, once again, I would like to thank her – and the Greek government, in general – because we feel comfortable, we feel very well. Greece is on our side, and this is an answer to all those who allege that Greece is indifferent. Not at all, Greece is not indifferent. Our relationship is a brotherly, friendly relationship, a relationship of cooperation and support. And we will ask whatever we need, but on the other hand, we don’t want to give the impression that our relations are similar to the relations between certain others.
For her part, Ms. Bakoyannis mentioned:
I would also like to say it was a pleasure to meet with President Christofias. As you know, Greek-Cypriot cooperation is ongoing. Coordination is necessary. We are both in New York at an unquestionably difficult time. Our meetings must send a common and coordinated message in order for us to be more effective. I don’t have much to add to what the President has already told you. Greece is present; it supports all of Cyprus’ efforts. To us, the Cyprus issue – need not repeat myself – is Greece’s top national issue and it is on this issue that we have put all our weight lately. We will both have meetings with people who play a role in negotiations. Of course, our cooperation on European issues and other issues of concern to us is also very good. So, thank you again, Mr. President. We will have the opportunity to talk again this week. Briefing each other is necessary following the meetings we are going to have.