VISIT: Cyprus is Russia’s most credible EU ally, says President

Cyprus is Russia’s most credible ally within the EU, President Nicos Anastasiades said on Wednesday, during a meeting with Sergey Naryshkin, the Chairman of the State Duma, after which h signed a host of bilateral agreements with President Vladimir Putin.

Key agreements include a renewal of a military support agreement, providing humanitarian aid and facilities in case of a Russian evacuation in the eastern Mediterranean, as well as some cooperation protocols that aim to revive investments in Cyprus and the return of Russian tourists.
The President, who is paying an official visit to Russia, said Nicosia has always supported a diplomatic solution of the crisis in Ukraine, expressing support for the two Minsk agreements.
Anastasiades also thanked Naryshkin for Duma’s approval of a loan extension for Cyprus.
The Chairman of the State Duma thanked in return the President for the stance of Cypriot MPs during last year’s discussion at the Council of Europe to withdraw Russia’s voting rights. He added that he is aware of the negative stance Cyprus has held concerning EU sanctions against Russia.
On the economy, President Anastasiades said Russian businessmen who are active in Cyprus, are a significant support for the country’s economy, while the constant flow of Russia tourists to the island is a proof of close ties.
In an earlier meeting, Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev recalled his own official visit to Cyprus in 2010 where a significant number of agreements were signed, adding that he had very warm impressions from this visit. He added that more important agreements will be signed during Anastasiades’ visit.
The Russian Premier expressed satisfaction for President Anastasiades’ travel to both his and Russian President Vladimir Putin’s hometown, Saint Petersburg.
President Anastasiades is accompanied by Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides, Energy and Commerce Minsiter Giorgos Lakkotrypis and Government Spokesman Nikos Christodoulides.