US President barack Obama has said the prospects for a lasting Cyprus settlement are the best seen in many years.
Ahead of his visit to Greece in the coming week, Obama told Kathimerini newspaper that the parties in Cyprus “remain hard at work to achieve a bizonal, bicommunal federation that advances the interests of all Cypriots.”
“I applaud the effort that the Cypriot leaders have put into the negotiations so far, and I hope they can soon arrive at a durable solution that will benefit all Cypriots,” said Obama.
“Today, the prospects for a lasting settlement on Cyprus are the best we’ve seen in many years.”
He added that a just and comprehensive solution for Cyprus would have historic and far-reaching impact. It would improve economic opportunities for all the people of Cyprus and enhance energy security in the Mediterranean region and beyond, the US president said, adding that it would create opportunities for US and European businesses – an alignment of interests that could be an engine for economic growth in the region.
It could also unlock new relationships and avenues of cooperation for Europe that would build on the decades-long project to make the continent freer, safer, and more prosperous.
“And it will demonstrate to the world today what can be achieved through dialogue, compromise, and diplomacy – a powerful and positive model for all.”
President Nicos Anastasiades and Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akicni have just completed five days of intensive talks in Switzerland on territory. The leaders have taken a break after failing to totally agree and will resume the talks next Sunday in Geneva over a period of three more days.