ND Leader Visits Cyprus

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ND Leader Visits Cyprus

New Democracy party leader Antonis Samaras is on an official three-day visit to Cyprus, where he met with Cyprus President Demetris Christofias.

Discussions focused on the Cyprus issue and natural gas exploration in the Republic of Cyprus Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). In statements following the meeting, Samaras stressed that the Cyprus issue remains a top priority for Greek foreign policy, and called for a viable, functional solution with a single sovereignty and international personality. He further noted that Greece should undertake similar initiatives in relation to the EEZ and refered to a possible Greek-Cypriot joint strategy regarding underwater wealth.

During his visit, Samaras also met with Cyprus' centre-right Democracy Rally (DISY) party leader Nikos Anastasiades. The two men discussed Greek-Cypriot relations, with Samaras noting that they have acquired great importance and strategic depth, especially in the economic realm.

Regarding the Cyprus issue, he added that Cyprus' upcoming EU presidency is an opportunity to enhance EU involvement in finding a solution. Samaras also met with Commerce, Industry and Tourism Minister Praxoula Antoniadou, who briefed him on the second round of licensing for exploration in Cyprus’ EEZ. He also held meetings with Cyprus House of Representatives Speaker Yiannakis Omirou and ruling left-wing AKEL party leader Andros Kyprianou. He was further received by the Archbishop of Cyprus Chryssostomos.

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