Media release
13 July, 2009
Meeting with United Nations Official in Cyprus
While in transit in the Republic of Cyprus today on my way to Malta I met with Mr Yasser Sabra, Coordinator of the United Nations Good Offices Mission, to discuss developments in the Cyprus peace process.
Our discussions focused on the progress achieved so far, including the welcome opening of the Limnitis Crossing, which demonstrated what can be achieved when there is determination on both sides, and on the prospects for achieving a comprehensive settlement.
Australia encourages both sides to retain their commitment to the settlement negotiations, and to show leadership and vision in addressing and resolving the challenging issues which remain.
My meeting today followed on from the visit to Australia by the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Cyprus, His Excellency Mr Markos Kyprianou, in March this year and my visit to Cyprus in October 2008.
Relations between our two countries are underpinned by strong people-to-people links. The Cypriot community in Australia numbers around 50,000 and makes an important contribution to Australian society.
Australia is a long-standing supporter of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus and has a deep commitment to a just and lasting settlement of the Cyprus dispute.
Since 1964, Australian police officers have served continually as part of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), making a valuable contribution to the maintenance of peace and stability on the island.
There are currently 15 Australian Federal Police officers serving with UNFICYP. I met with current and former Australian officers of UNFICYP when I visited Cyprus in October last year.
Australia has maintained a Special Representative for Cyprus since 1998. The present Special Representative, Ambassador to France, David Ritchie, was appointed in July 2008, reflecting the importance Australia attaches to the UN Secretary-General's renewed efforts to resolve the long-running Cyprus dispute.
My predecessor, former Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer, is the United Nations Secretary-General's Special Adviser on Cyprus, also reflecting Australia's long standing contribution and commitment to a resolution in Cyprus.
Media inquiries:
- Mr Smith's office 02 6277 7500
- Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555