Cyprus PIO: News Update in English, 99-05-17

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From: The Republic of Cyprus Press and Information Office Server at <http://www.pio.gov.cy/>

Monday, 17 May 1999

CONTENTS

• [01] Greece and Cyprus sign memorandum of co-operation
• [02] Seminar to promote closer business ties between Greece and Cyprus
• [03] Kasoulides flies to Sweden

[01] Greece and Cyprus sign memorandum of co-operation

The strategy also relates to increasing Cyprus' military deterrent as part of a joint Greco-Cypriot defence pact and reiterates that any offensive against Cyprus would constitute an act of war, as far as Greece is concerned.

Cyprus Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides and Greek Alternate Foreign Minister Yiannos Kasoulides, speaking at a press conference after talks, pointed to the need for effective pressure on Turkey to shift from its intransigent stand and help open the road towards a settlement.

"Greece considers any anticipated initiative on Cyprus as a positive move provided this complies with UN resolutions," Mr Kranidiotis said, pointing out that any engagement on the part of others would be welcomed.

He said "there is no dialogue at present, nothing specific now but there is international interest in Cyprus and we call on the world community to show the same sensitivity for Cyprus as in Kosovo."

[02] Seminar to promote closer business ties between Greece and Cyprus

Mr Rolandis was speaking at a business meeting on Saturday organised by the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KEVE) and the daily newspaper "Phileleftheros".

Greek Alternate Foreign Minister Yiannos Kranidiotis was the key speaker at the meeting aimed at forging closer ties between the business communities of the two countries.

Mr Rolandis assured that the two governments were determined to back every effort undertaken by business people and said they must ensure that their economies could compete in the new international business climate.

He said the prime areas for an expansion of joint ventures were telecommunications, tourism and technology.

Mr Kranidiotis on his part called on Turkish Cypriots to accept an invitation from the Cyprus government to participate in accession talks with the European Union (EU).

He stressed the need for the resumption of the dialogue to settle the Cyprus problem and underlined that the US has an important role to play for a solution to be reached.

"In efforts for a just solution we recognise that the role of the US is especially important," Kranidiotis said, adding "we have assurances that they wish to help".

The Greek official said the US must not only express verbal support but must also act and called on Washington to "exert pressure on Ankara and help UN efforts".

[03] Kasoulides flies to Sweden

From the Republic of Cyprus Press and Information Office (PIO) Server at http://www.pio.gov.cy/

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