It is my hope that a report, which I have just received from Australia's Special Envoy for Cyprus, the Hon. Jim Short, can contribute to international efforts to find a just and lasting resolution to the Cyprus dispute.

Mr Short will present his report to the Cypriot, Greek and Turkish Australian communities in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide this week.  He will then visit the United Nations, Cyprus and other countries with interests in the Cyprus problem to discuss matters flowing from the report.

Australia has limited influence over the parties directly involved in this long-running dispute.  However, Australia has the second largest community of Cypriots in the world outside Cyprus and a long involvement with the Cyprus problem.  Reflecting these interests, the position of Special Envoy was created in 1998 to assist international efforts towards a resolution.

Australia has contributed police to the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus since 1964 and consistently supported the Secretary-General's efforts towards solving the dispute.

In my discussions with relevant international leaders over many years, I have stressed that the existing situation cannot be allowed to continue indefinitely.  The lack of a resolution is lamentable and has led to much human suffering.

The report represents a positive and valuable contribution to the global community's efforts and the Australian Government will give due consideration to Mr Short's recommendations.