Cypriot President Anastasiades Addresses German Think Tank

The discussions centered around the Cyprus solution, that remains a crucial element for Eastern Mediterranean geopolitical advancements.  As reported by Cypriot news outlet Parikiaki, the President stated: "A pivotal aspect in terms of geopolitics of the Eastern Mediterranean is, of course, the solution of the Cyprus problem. The reunification of Cyprus will undoubtedly have a decisive and positive influence in the turbulent region of the Eastern Mediterranean, by improving the relationship not only of Turkey with Cyprus but also of Turkey with the EU".

Anastasiades commented on the return of Famagusta, regarding its containment and port. He explained, "This proposal has been heralded by the European Union, by individual member states as well as the White House. Unfortunately, as of yet, we are still awaiting a positive response from the Turkish side, which seems to be dragging its feet on the matter".

The Cypriot premier declared, "...the ultimate goal, however, remains the solution to the Cyprus problem, which should meet the aspirations of all Cypriots to co-exist peacefully in a European country, enjoying full respect of their fundamental human rights and freedoms".

The recent identification of hydrocarbon reserves in the Levantine Basin has considerably altered the geopolitical status of the island. Anastasiades explained, "This has opened up new avenues of cooperation for the countries of the region. The possibility for a number of states to cooperate for the joint utilisation and exploitation of these resources to the benefit of future generations, has the potential to alleviate some of the stark security dilemmas faced by almost every country in the region".

The President wrapped up his address with the following statement: "Cypriot society is once again going through a paradigm shift, calling for readjustment and evolution. But the silver lining in what has otherwise been a difficult year is that my country is rising to the challenge and judiciously following through with the Economic Adjustment Programme, of which I am very proud. At the same time, the prospects arising from the newly discovered hydrocarbons in our EEZ, are a factor contributing to a sound basis for optimism. Reforming our economy provides us with an opportunity to seek development through sustainable means, and a better tomorrow".