Greece-Cyprus: Working together in the markets of the Balkans

Commerce, Industry and Tourism Minister Antonis Paschalides has said that the Cypriot economy has proved that despite its small size, it is based on sound structures which enable it to deal successfully with contemporary challenges.
Addressing an event entitled ''Greece-Cyprus: Working together for consolidation in the markets of the Balkans and south-eastern Mediterranean'', Paschalides said that the business community of Cyprus has proved once again its maturity, dynamism and readiness, all of which allow businesses to cope successfully in a competitive international environment.
Welcoming the President of the Association of Exporters of Northern Greece Vassilis Thomaidis, his associates and representatives of the industrial and commercial sector in Greece, the Minister said that their presence ''indicates our mutual interest in deepening our bilateral economic relations and co-operation of the business world.”
The Cypriot economy, he noted, “is showing dynamism and flexibility, which is due to the direct measures taken by the government to stimulate the economy.''
He said that Cyprus has evolved gradually into a vital financial and commercial hub between the European Union and the countries of the Middle East, Asia and North Africa.
''I am convinced that Cypriot businesses can expand in the markets of the Middle East and the Arab countries more effectively in cooperation with Greek businesses,” he noted. He also said that Greece can help Cypriot business people to gain access to the Balkan countries.
Greece and Cyprus, he added, have very good relations and prospects are even more favorable for deepening and broadening bilateral cooperation.
Furthermore, he said that the Cyprus government must take the appropriate measures to further develop the export of goods and services.
Concluding his remarks, he noted that contact and initiatives among business people are very important.