Colombia seeks cooperation with Cyprus

The new Colombian Ambassador to Cyprus, Sabas Pretelt de la Vega, has expressed satisfaction with efforts made by the Cyprus government to find a definitive solution to the Cypriot issue, within the framework of the principles and rules of international law.
Receiving the ambassador’s credentials, President Tassos Papadopoulos said “we have been closely following your government’s consistent campaign to eradicate cocaine production in Colombia.”

“The strategic situation of Cyprus in the Mediterranean as entry point to three continents, and that of Colombia in the best corner of South America are undoubtedly conditions that our countries should take advantage of and convert them in business and employment opportunities for both Cypriot and Colombian citizens,” said de la Vega.

He said his country can learn a great deal from the way Cyprus has transformed its territory into a premium destination for the tourism from Europe and the rest of the world, thus giving a big boost to its economy.

The new Colombian Ambassador expressed the belief that “our two countries can contribute to find ways to tackle sensitive problems. We believe, for example, that by working together it is possible to advance in the fight against organized crime and terrorism, fuelled by the multimillion business of drug trafficking.”

Replying, the President said that on the bilateral level, both countries should investigate prospects for cooperation, including ways to strengthen investment and economic opportunities, adding that Cyprus’ prime location at the crossroads of three continents could enable Colombian companies to promote their activities in the Middle East.