The President of the Republic met with the
Leader
of the Opposition of Israel
The President of the Republic Mr Nicos Anastasiades met
today, in Jerusalem, with the Leader of the Opposition of Israel, Mr Yitzhak
Herzog, in the presence of the members of the Cyprus delegation.
In his remarks to reporters, President Anastasiades
said, among other things, that Cyprus and Israel share common values and
principles of democracy but also concerns.
“I am sure we will find common ground to further
strengthen our relations,” the President said, adding that “we are facing common
problems and threats but with our efforts, with our principles and with the help
of friends, we might lead our nations to peace, stability and prosperity,” and
pointed out that we have to see how to combat terrorism.
Referring to the Cyprus problem, the President said that
“there is a glimpse of hope now that the negotiations have resumed and we do
hope that we might be able this time to find a peaceful, lasting solution.”
At the same time he expressed hope that both the
Israelis and the Arab countries will find their own way, adding that “we are
supporting the UN resolutions as regards the Middle East problem, for a two
state solution with full respect of the sovereignty, the existence and
especially the security of the people of Israel as well as the human rights of
all the peoples in the region.”
On his part, Mr Herzog referred to the common values and
principles of democracy between Cyprus and Israel. He also referred to the
situation in Gaza, Syria and in the region for which he expressed concern.
He added that “we are expecting a UN Commission report on our
operation in Gaza in the summer,” and of course we are focusing on our right to
defend Israel “and making sure that our people will live in peace and
tranquility along with our neighbors.”
