China has reaffirmed its longstanding support for a comprehensive and lasting settlement of the Cyprus problem, as the newly appointed Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Cyprus, Yang Yundong, formally presented his credentials to President Nikos Christodoulides on Tuesday.
Speaking during the official ceremony at the Presidential Palace, Ambassador Yang said that, as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, China will continue to support a “comprehensive, just and lasting settlement” of the Cyprus issue. He reiterated Beijing’s firm position in backing Cyprus’ sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“Our two countries have always enjoyed mutual understanding and support on issues concerning each other’s core interests,” the Ambassador said, noting that Cyprus has consistently adhered to the One China principle, while China has “resolutely supported Cyprus in safeguarding sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
President Christodoulides, in turn, expressed sincere appreciation for China’s “longstanding and principled position” on the Cyprus problem, highlighting Beijing’s constructive role within the UN Security Council and its consistent support in line with relevant UN resolutions.
He reaffirmed that efforts are currently underway under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General to create conditions for the resumption of negotiations, stressing that Cyprus remains committed to a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality, in accordance with UN resolutions and EU principles.
“We count on China’s continued support towards this objective,” the President said.
The meeting also underscored the deepening bilateral relations between the two countries, which this year mark 55 years of diplomatic ties and five years since their elevation to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Christodoulides described these milestones as evidence of a relationship grounded in mutual respect, international law, and shared principles.
Particular emphasis was placed on growing economic and people-to-people links, with the President welcoming China’s recent decision to grant visa-free access to Cypriot citizens. He also expressed optimism over progress in key bilateral initiatives, including a double taxation agreement, an air services agreement, agricultural export protocols, and the reactivation of the Joint Economic Committee.
“These initiatives will provide fresh impetus to our economic partnership and unlock new opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation,” he noted.
Ambassador Yang praised Cyprus’ recent economic performance and its successful Presidency of the Council of the European Union, saying it had further enhanced the country’s international standing.
He also highlighted the outcomes of cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative since the signing of a memorandum of understanding in 2019, pointing to advances in trade, tourism, education, and cultural exchanges.
“The Chinese side deeply cherishes its relations with Cyprus and stands ready to work with the Cypriot side to open up even brighter prospects in our bilateral ties,” he said.
