Greek PM to discuss Cyprus issue in Moscow

The Greek Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis arrives in Moscow today on a three-day official visit, accompanied by the Foreign Minister Dora Bakogianni, Minister of State Theodoros Rousoopoulos and Minister of Development Christos Folias.

Karamanlis, in an interview with the Russian language magazine “Greece”, has said that he intends to discuss with Russian President Vladimir Poutin bilateral cooperation on financial and energy matters, international issues such as the latest developments in the Balkans, the Middle East and Afghanistan as well as relations between Russia and the European Union.

The Greek Prime Minister will also discuss the Cyprus issue, on which he considers Russia to have a positive contribution.

In another interview with the Russian News Agency ITAR –TASS, the Greek Prime Minister said that “Greece considers the Cyprus problem as a major national issue. We persist on finding a just, viable, functional settlement on which the two communities will agree; a solution based on Security Council Resolutions and the principles and values of European Union.”

Karamanlis expressed his appreciation for Russia’s constant support to efforts aimed at the reunification of Cyprus, which will be to the best interest of its legitimate habitants.

In both interviews the Greek Prime Minister referred to the cooperation of his country and Russia on energy issues and the major projects under development which will turn Greece into “an important route for the transport of energy, into a substantive energy hub” thus contributing to Europe’s energy sufficiency and to its diversification from its dependence on sources and routes.”

“Greek – Russian relations have entered a new dynamic course. Progress during recent years is particularly perceptible. The level of our relations is excellent and this can be attributed both to the historic relations between our countries and people and their potential,” Karamanlis stressed, outlining further the “excellent relations we maintain with President Poutin”.

Referring to the 180 years anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties, the Prime Minister stressed that “Russia has been a supporter of Greece during difficult times of Greek history while in modern times good communication continues through cooperation at international fora, frequent exchange of opinions and common views on certain international issues.”

He also stressed that “our financial relations present excellent prospects because of the rapid development of the Russian economy and the dynamism of the Greek economy”.

Furthermore, Karamanlis referred to the opportunities for investment and financial cooperation of Greek and Russian entrepreneurs, pointing out the possibilities of joint ventures with South East European and Middle East companies.

He also advocated the quick resolution of pending issues with a view to begin negotiations for a new EU – Russian Treaty and talked in favour of strengthening negotiations between Russia and NATO, to reinforce security in Euro Atlantic area and the promotion of mutual trust where disputes appear.