President Nikos Christodoulides is departing for Kyiv for a working visit as part of preparations ahead of Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union, according to a statement from the Presidency.
He is to arrive in Kyiv on Thursday, 4 December.
The visit, it said, is taking place during a period of significant developments for Ukraine and “reflects the steadfast political will of the Republic of Cyprus to actively contribute to advancing European priorities and to express its unwavering support for Ukraine.”
It notes that during his meeting with Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President Christodoulides “will reaffirm the full commitment of the Republic of Cyprus to the fundamental principles of international law and Cyprus’ absolute respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, a position aligned with our own historical experience and our unwavering principles, which must be upheld universally and without exception.” The discussions will also outline the main priorities of the upcoming Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU, which places the Ukrainian issue high on the European agenda, the statement adds.
“At the same time, the need to decisively address the phenomenon of sanctions circumvention will be underscored, as well as the broader effectiveness of the international sanctions framework, which requires a common stance, transparency, and consistency from all,” the announcement said.
According to the announcement, the President of the Republic will arrive in Kyiv on Thursday, December 4. Following his arrival, he will lay a wreath at the Wall of Remembrance of the Fallen for Ukraine, in the presence of President Zelenskyy.
The two Presidents will then have a meeting, followed by expanded talks at the Presidential Palace focusing on EU-Ukraine relations, the country’s accession negotiations, and the contribution of the forthcoming Cypriot Presidency. The two leaders will make statements to the media and then participate in a working lunch.
Later on, President Christodoulides will visit the Ukrainian Parliament for a meeting with Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk, “affirming the strong institutional dimension of the relations between the two countries.”
President Christodoulides will then visit the Special Rehabilitation Centre for children repatriated after abduction and captivity in occupied territories, “highlighting the humanitarian dimension of Cyprus’ stance toward the war and its impact on the most vulnerable victims,” the statement notes.
Before departing from Kyiv, the President will also visit Saint Sophia Cathedral, “an emblematic monument of the Orthodox tradition and the cultural heritage of the country.”
President Christodoulides will be accompanied by Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis, Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna, Director of the President’s Diplomatic Office Doros Venezis, and other officials.
(Source: CNA)
