Press Releases

The High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus to New Zeeland, Mr Antonis Sammoutis, presented on 18 April 2023 his credentials to Dame Helen Winkelmann, Chief Justice and Administrator of the Government.

During the official ceremony, the High Commissioner conveyed President Nikos Christodoulides warm wishes to the General Governor and to the people of New Zeeland.

Mr Sammoutis referred to the excellent level of relations and ties between the Republic of Cyprus and New Zealand. At the same time, he expressed his gratitude for the country’s previous contribution to UNFICYP and for the support in the efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue. The High Commissioner referred to the efforts to restart the negotiations for a solution to the Cyprus problem and to President Christodoulides’ efforts for the active involvement of the European Union in order to break the current deadlock.

Dame Helen Winkelmann conveyed her greetings to President Christodoulides, expressing her congratulations for his election. At the same time, she reaffirmed her country's support for a viable solution to the Cyprus problem. She also thanked the High Commissioner for Cyprus' continued support in advancing New Zealand's relations with the European Union, with special reference to Cyprus' support for the conclusion of the Free Trade Agreement between the EU and New Zealand, which is expected to enter into force soon. During her speech, Dame Winkelmann made a special reference to the small, but very active, Cypriot community in the country.

During his stay in New Zealand, High Commissioner Sammoutis celebrated Easter with the Cypriot community. He also had the opportunity to meet with the Metropolitan of New Zealand, Mr Myron, the Honorary Consul of Cyprus, Mr Kypros Kotzikas, the Honorary Consul of Greece, Mr George Neonakis, and the President of the Cypriot community, Mr Andronicos Economou.

(MF/MV/ECHR)