Cypriot Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Ioannis Kasoulides speaks about his country’s disagreement with the EU policy on anti-Russian embargoes and preparedness to all peaceful initiatives:
“As you can understand, Cyprus is a very small country, and we cannot solely stop the process or decision understood differently by other 27 [EU] members. However we have more than once expressed our opinion in public without any qualms. And our opinion is that application of sanctions may hardly help settle any problem.
“What is more, the sanctions have been harmful for our economy. Especially we were feeling it when the economic situation in Cyprus was far from good.”
Q.: Can you present Cyprus’ politics? What are its key directions?
A.: First of all, we want to emphasize on our regional politics. It is very logic when you are having your own way with regard to your neighbours.
For the past three years, we have gained an unprecedented breakthrough in our relations with our nearest neighbours.
Q.: Middle East has become the most actual battlefront in global politics. What do you think about the current situation in Syria?
A.: We share common opinion with Russia that the humanitarian issue is a a big concern. A lot of peaceful population, children and old people are suffering in Syria now. That is why we express our hope that [the sides of the conflict] will be able to succeed in ceasefire and then initiate the process of political consultations.
I would also like to note that Cyprus has a firm belief that what Syria needs is territorial integrity. We also want it for our own country.
Q.: Is the problem of growing Islamic extremism a concern for the Cypriot authorities?
A.: I would like to emphasize on the necessity of cooperation with special services of all countries of the world. If Islamic extremists would place their targets in Europe, including Russia, we would also be their target. For them, all Christian countries are a target.
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