Greek President stresses solidarity with Cyprus

President Katerina Sakellaropoulou on Monday underlined the unity and solidarity between Greece and Cyprus in the face of Turkish provocations during a two-day official visit to Nicosia.

“The two countries maintain a common, solid diplomatic front,” Sakellaropoulou said during talks with her Cyprus counterpart Nicos Anastasiades, adding that the two countries’ foreign policy was guided by shared objectives and “always based on international law.”

She said that Turkey’s withdrawal of the Oruc Reis research vessel was a step toward de-escalation, “but it remains to be seen whether it was a tactical move with short-term objectives.”

On his part, President Anastasiades welcomed his Greek counterpart and expressed Cyprus’ gratitude for Greece’s long-standing position and support shown to the Republic of Cyprus.

He noted that Sakellaropoulou’s visit comes at a time of crisis brought about by Turkish actions both in the Aegean and the eastern Mediterranean through a serious of moves which could likely have led to undesirable developments had it not been for Greece’s level headed handling of the matter.

Sakellaropoulou was welcomed earlier by Anastasiades during an official ceremony. The national anthem was played by the police philharmonic, and the two Presidents reviewed the presidential guard of honour.

The Greek President then laid a wreath at a statue of the late Archbishop Makarios III and first President of Cyprus. Then each President introduced the members of their delegation to the other. After that, they walked to the stairs at the entrance of the Presidential Palace where a red carpet was laid.

During a ceremony to take place later, Anastasiades is expected to decorate Sakellaropoulou with the Grand Collar of the Order of Makarios III.

Later Sakellaropoulou will meet with Archbishop Chrysostomos and will hold a meeting with President of Parliament Demetris Syllouris and the leaders of the political parties. She will also address a special plenary of the House.