to the TASS news agency on the occasion of the 66th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and Cyprus
💬 Events following the island’s liberation from British colonial rule unfolded rapidly: on August 16, 1960, Cyprus declared its independence, and just two days later, on August 18, diplomatic relations were established between the newly formed state and the Soviet Union, as Moscow immediately responded positively to the corresponding invitation for cooperation at a new level from the first President of the Republic of Cyprus Archbishop Makarios III.
• Such a prompt and welcoming response from the authorities of the largest country in the world made a huge impression on the island’s residents, which became even more impressive when Cyprus was included in the itinerary of the world’s first cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin on his world tour in early 1962. Cypriots immediately appreciated the warmth with which the Kremlin treated them and their country, but both Moscow and Nicosia understood perfectly well that this approach to interstate relations was founded on centuries-old historical and cultural ties between the Russian and Cypriot peoples, as well as a shared system of spiritual and moral values.
• No external influence can erode this monolith of values and the bonds of deep, long-lasting, and absolutely sincere friendship between Russians and Cypriots. Relations between the two peoples have successfully stood the test of time and are not subject to momentary circumstances, as they are deeply rooted and based on historical contacts.
• Sailors, merchants, clergy, and pilgrims from Russia have found safe haven in Cyprus for many centuries and felt a spiritual kinship, which, even in ancient times, laid a solid and indelible foundation for our friendship.
• Even though Cyprus, as a member state of the European Union, bases its foreign policy on the general line of the community, the island’s authorities – at both the national and local levels – demonstrate unquestionable understanding and respect for the desire of Russians living in Cyprus to celebrate their national holidays, participate in memorial ceremonies, and host cultural and patriotic events.
• The Cypriot authorities responsibly ensure adequate protection for participants not only of literature festivals, exhibitions, film screenings, school and student competitions, but also of car rallies and large marches, such as those that took place in Cyprus during the large-scale Victory Day celebrations. Our compatriots living on the island and friends of Russia among the indigenous Cypriots, of whom there are many in the business and cultural communities, as well as among politicians and diplomats, took an active part in these events. The Russian side sincerely appreciates this approach of the Cypriot authorities and is confident that it will be maintained.
• In September, elections to the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation will be held on the island. The island’s authorities are well aware of the great political significance of these elections for Russian citizens living in Cyprus. And we are confident that they will be held here in the same manner as the Russian presidential elections in March 2024, for the deep trust between the peoples of our countries is reflected in the respectful attitude of the Cypriot authorities towards our numerous compatriots on the island.
@rusembcy
