The new Greek ambassador in Cyprus Vasilios Papayoanou gave in his letters of credit, announced Katemerini newspaper. On his meeting with President Dimistris Hristofias he noted that: “We know that the solution of the Cyprian problem is in Turkish hands, and the messages we are receiving from there are not positive, even though the country knows the fact that its decision is vital for the normal development of our relations with it.”

“Without a question the key for solving the Cyprian problem is in Ankara,” said also the President of the Republic of Cyprus Hristofias, and added that Turkey as a country, which wants to join the European Union has to respect the values and principles of the Union as well as the rights between the communities. “Cyprus supports the Turkish European perspective but will not give it a blank check. We expect Turkey to show some will, maturity, and desire to cooperate by keeping the obligations and agreements, which they undertook in front of the EU. Unfortunately, until now Turkey has not shown a sign of good will. Quite the opposite, it is acting through blackmail and is trying to get something in return from the EU,” also added President Hristofias.

The Greek ambassador confirmed that the termination of the Turkish occupation on the Island is still one of the advantages of the Greek foreign policy.

“The respect and protection of Cyprus’ independence, the constant cooperation and coordination between the two governments is the basis in our policy regarding the Cyprian topic,” continues the new ambassador. “Cyprus’ role as an EU member country is a guarantee for its continuing existence and securing the rights of its citizens. – the Cyprian Greeks and Cyprian Turks,” adds Mr. Papayoanou.

“The historical relations between our countries, as well as our common goals are a compass for future battles, in which we will have to face one hard, hostile, and changing international environment, which is scourged by the economic crisis, political uncertainty, and social inequalities,” notes the President of Cyprus.