Cyprus is among the countries considered to be a safe holiday destination for German citizens, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said.
She made the comment during an extensive telephone conversation with President Nicos Anastasiades, whom she congratulated for Cyprus’ positive results during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Anastasiades informed Merkel on Nicosia’s effective handling of the outbreak and the current epidemiological condition allowing Cyprus to welcome foreign tourists.
German tourists will be able to visit Cyprus from next week, it is the island’s fifth largest holiday market with a 3.8% share (151,500) in 2019.
The President also underlined the importance of bilateral synergies to support tourism, a key sector for the Cypriot economy.
“Merkel congratulated President Anastasiades for Cyprus’ positive results and informed him that Cyprus is among the countries considered to be safe destinations for German citizens,” said a written statement by deputy government spokesman Panayiotis Sentonas.
The two leaders discussed ongoing developments in the coronavirus pandemic and exchanged views about the EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework, as well as the Recovery Fund, that is under discussion, Sentonas said.
President Anastasiades congratulated Chancellor Merkel for her joint initiative with French President Emmanuel Macron, which played a constructive role in shaping the relevant European Commission proposal.
The Chancellor was also informed about Turkey’s illegal activities in Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and the broader region.
During the conversation, President Anastasiades elaborated on the range of negative consequences, as well as on the destabilizing character of Turkey’s illegal activities, the spokesman said.
“The two leaders arrived at a common understanding about the role the EU must play, which needs to continue monitoring Turkish actions closely, acting decisively while insisting on the implementation of its decisions and demonstrating its practical solidarity,” the statement said.
They agreed the two countries should stay in close contact and consultation, on all levels, ahead of the German Presidency of the EU Council.
