Cyprus serves as an important link for further strengthening relations between Australia and the EU, Governor-General of Australia, Sam Mostyn AC, said, receiving on October 20, the credentials of the new High Commissioner of Cyprus, Charalambos Kafkarides.
A press release by the Foreign Ministry says that Mostyn welcomed the High Commissioner to Australia and highlighted the significance of the Cyprus diaspora, which has played an integral role for many decades in the development of Australia as a prosperous and multicultural society.
She also emphasised the substantial contribution of the Cypriot community to the country’s economic and social development, the Foreign Ministry press release reads.
The Governor-General referred to Australia’s significant contribution to the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus, particularly through the participation of Australian police officers. She furthermore noted that Australia’s participation in UNFICYP has been the country’s longest-running United Nations peacekeeping mission and has contributed significantly to peace and stability on the island.
Mostyn also congratulated the Government of the Republic of Cyprus on its recent successful Presidency of the Council of the European Union, adding that Cyprus serves as an important link for further strengthening relations between Australia and the EU.
Kafkarides referred to the excellent relations between Cyprus and Australia, as well as the close cooperation between the two countries within international organisations, particularly the Commonwealth.
According to the press release by the Foreign Ministry, the High Commissioner thanked the Governor-General for Australia’s long-standing support for efforts to achieve a just, viable and comprehensive solution to the Cyprus problem, which would lead to the reunification of Cyprus.
He also expressed Cyprus’ gratitude for Australia’s long-standing contribution to UNFICYP, which has spanned more than five decades.
The High Commissioner referred to the significant and active presence of the Cyprus community throughout Australia, estimated to number over 80,000 people, highlighting its valuable contribution to Australian society.
The High Commissioner also emphasized the particular importance he intends to place, during his tenure, on initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting Cypriot traditions and cultural heritage within the framework of Australia’s multicultural society.
