Minister of Cyprus: Three more consulates in Russia to facilitate tourism

The government of Cyprus will soon open three more consulates in Russia, in the framework of its policy to facilitate Russian tourists who wish to visit the Mediterranean island, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Tourism Antonis Paschalides has said.

In statements on Monday before leaving Moscow, the Cypriot Minister said that the new consulates will operate in Samara, Krasnodar and Yekaterinburg.

The Minister noted that the government of Cyprus will take more steps in order to reverse the negative impact caused by the world economic crisis on Cyprus’ tourism last year, including increasing regular flights between the two countries and starting new charter flights to more Russian cities.

As regards tourism, he said that tourism from Russia fell last year by 17 %, but noted that during the first two months of 2010 an increase of 14,3% was recorded.

“Russia is for Cyprus a very important strategic partner, not only for tourism but also for economy and energy” he said.

Paschalides expressed the gratitude of the government of Cyprus to the Russian government for its “consistent and continuous support” and said that Nicosia works within the EU to upgrade and support the EU – Russia cooperation.

Referring to the official visit of Russian President Dmitri Medvedev to Cyprus in October this year, he said it sends clear political messages, since it will be taking place in the framework of celebrations for the 50th anniversary since the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus and the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between both countries.