Lavrov: Russian position on Cyprus 'based on principles'

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has reaffirmed that his country’s position with regard to the solution of the Cyprus problem is based on principles, noting at the same time that the starting point of Moscow’s position is the relevant UN resolutions.

Lavrov met in Moscow with Progressive Party of the Working People (AKEL) Secretary General Antros Kyprianou who is visiting Russia, heading a party delegation that includes also former President of the Republic Demetris Christofias.

According to an AKEL press release, the Russian FM welcomed the level of bilateral relations between Russia and Cyprus and pointed out that Russia will continue its effort to support the Cypriot economy.

Russia's position on the Cyprus problem was also reiterated, according to AKEL, by the Duma Speaker Sergey Naryshkin who supported Russia’s involvement in Crimea. As noted, Naryshkin indicated that the Crimean issue “has nothing to do with Cyprus”.

Russian Duma Speaker expressed hope that the Cypriot economy will stabilise, noting that for 2014 around 800.000 Russian tourists are expected to arrive in Cyprus, compared to 613.000 in 2013.