Cyprus and Israel share challenge in science and technology

Cyprus and Israel share a challenge to work together in the name of science and technology, Israeli President Shimon Peres said on Monday, during a joint press conference with President of the Republic of Cyprus Demetris Christofias, who is on an official visit to Israel.

Furthermore, Peres expressed hope that Cyprus would be reunited, noting that the current situation was not an option but a result of force.

President Christofias said that the recent signing of the agreement for the demarcation of the exclusive economic zone of the two countries was undoubtedly a significant development, which would lead to the promotion of bilateral cooperation in the sector of energy.

He added that he briefed Peres on developments in the Cyprus problem, and expressed his readiness to exhaust all opportunities in the direction of the reunification of the island.

Two agreements were signed on Monday in Israel, one between the Cyprus Institute and the Tel Aviv University, and one between the Cyprus Stock Exchange and the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, by the leadership of the organisations, in the presence of the Presidents of the two countries.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. President Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Dervis Eroglu are currently engaged in UN-led negotiations with an aim to reunify the island under a federal roof.

MORE LATER