YEREVAN. – Mutual assistance between Armenia and Cyprus stands on a solid foundation, head of the Parliament of Cyprus Yiannakis Omirou said speaking at the National Assembly of Armenia.
He invited the head of the Armenian parliament Galust Sahakyan to visit Cyprus in the near future.
“The presence of the Armenian community in Cyprus is an additional guarantee of the development of and strengthening of our relations creating a wide range of cooperation in politics, economy, military, education and culture,” he said.
On behalf of the House of Representatives and the people of Cyprus, Omirou expressed his gratitude for the principled and consistent policy of Armenia in the name of freedom and the reunification of Cyprus and its people.
“We are aware of the price that you paid for this support, for which we thank you,” he emphasized.
Speaking about Turkey’s occupation of Cyprus, he noted that despite international condemnation, Ankara’s violations are becoming more open and destabilize the entire region.
“At the same time, government and military leaders of Turkey openly threatened to use military force, if the Republic of Cyprus continues to implement its sovereign rights,” he added.
The official added that such behavior of Turkey is familiar to Armenians. Yiannakis Omirou is convinced that the refusal to ratify the protocols is a manifestation of the same policy.
“Despite the difficulties caused by Ankara, Cyprus and Armenia should intensify bilateral relations, to join efforts in international organizations and take advantage of Cyprus and the Armenian Diaspora, creating a common front against the policies of Turkey. On behalf of the members of the House of Representatives and myself I express my willingness to work in this direction.
Perhaps, Armenia and Cyprus are not strong states, but our commitment is justified. We have lived and prospered and in more severe conditions. Armenian and Cypriot nations are fighting for freedom and justice, and their will is unshakable”.