Cypriot-Ukrainian parliamentarians to enhance relations

Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Ukrainian Parliament, Oleh Bilorus said Thursday that the visit of a delegation of Ukrainian members of Parliament marks the dawn of strengthening the already good relations between the two parliaments.

Bilorus was speaking during a meeting at the House with his Cypriot counterpart, Averof Neofytou and members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

Welcoming the delegation, Neofytou referred to the close political and economic relations of the two countries, underlining that there is room to further intensify them at all levels.

Bilorus agreed with Neofytou, noting that the visit of the delegation, the first by a Ukrainian Foreign Affairs Committee to Cyprus, is the starting point to increased ties.

He also said that in the modern time, interstate and inter-parliamentary cooperation are the foundations of social progress and welfare.

Bilorus said that investment activity is very dynamic but could be further strengthened and the Agreement to Avoid Double Taxation between Cyprus and the Ukraine could positively contribute towards this.

He described bilateral cooperation at international parliaments as excellent.

The Cypriot members of the House referred to the current situation on the Cyprus issue, noting that Cyprus depends on friendly countries such as the Ukraine to exert every possible pressure towards Turkey to curb its intransigent attitude.

Bilorus stressed his country believes that the Cyprus issue should be solved within the framework of the United Nations and according to international law.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Peace talks are currently underway to find a negotiated settlement to reunite the country.