“I met today with the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Christofias, with whom I had a warm discussion of issues of mutual interest. He briefed me on the course of the Cyprus issue, as well as on more general issues our two countries are focused on.
I will repeat the recent statement of Foreign Minister Avramopoulos, who pointed to the resolution of the Cyprus issue as a main, longstanding priority of Greek foreign policy. Greece is in complete coordination with this effort on the part of Cyprus to find a just and viable solution to the Cyprus issue. A solution that is in line with the resolutions of the UN General Assembly and the European acquis. All Hellenism is behind this effort, and I would say that there is a joint stance across party lines. The coordination and joint efforts of Greece and Cyprus can bring us the best possible result.
I briefed the President on issues in my portfolio. The World Council of Hellenes Abroad (SAE) has completed a major cycle and we are now looking at new organizational changes that concern its operation.
It is important to stress that a significant number of Greeks and Cypriots abroad distinguish themselves in the countries where they live, often holding important positions. It is critical that we capitalize on their strength. These are people who can serve as ambassadors for Greece and, particularly at this difficult time for Greece and Cyprus, make a major contribution. They can promote our major national issues and at the same time they can support the effort of Hellenism, of Greece and Cyprus, to overcome this difficult economic state of affairs. In this effort, as in many others, Greece and Cyprus have long moved and tried together.”
August 30, 2012