23-11-2024 13:26
Reply by the President of The Republic of Cyprus, Mr Νikos Christodoulides, on the occasion of the presentation of credentials by the new Ambassador of The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, H.E. Mr Fawaz Abdulrahman Hamad Alshubail
Your Excellency,
It is with distinct pleasure and sincere feelings of friendship that I receive today your Letters of Credence appointing you as the new Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Republic of Cyprus. First and foremost, I would like to assure you that both myself and my government will provide you with every assistance necessary in the performance of your high duties, so that your tenure will be highly constructive and successful to the benefit of our two countries and people.
Your Excellency,
It goes without saying that Cyprus and Saudi Arabia enjoy excellent relations at all levels, which are based on mutual respect and understanding. I am deeply committed to ensuring that our relations and cooperation, not only in the political, but also in the economic field, will develop to their full potential for the benefit of our two countries.
I would like to emphasise that enhancing relations with Saudi Arabia, as well as with the wider Gulf region, is a strategic priority for my government and a core pillar of our foreign policy. In light of this, I am eager to strengthen our engagement across all levels and to establish regular political consultations. These ongoing dialogues will provide a vital platform for us to discuss and collaborate on issues of mutual interest and shared concern.
The rapidly converging interests of our countries, shaped by the evolving dynamics of the region, highlight the importance of a strong and collaborative partnership. Given the pressing challenges we face, especially in the Middle East and the broader geopolitical landscape, Saudi Arabia’s role in addressing these complex issues is invaluable. By working together, we can contribute to regional stability, foster economic growth, and advance our shared vision for a prosperous future
Your Excellency,
At this point, I wish to extend our profound gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s longstanding and principled stance on the Cyprus issue. Fifty years since the illegal Turkish invasion and the ongoing military occupation of almost 37% of the territory of the Republic of Cyprus, my government remains committed to a comprehensive and viable solution firmly anchored on the relevant UNSC Resolutions, and fully in line with EU law. The Government of the Republic of Cyprus, along with the international community, unequivocally condemns the Turkish side’s irrational position for a “two-states” solution. We therefore continue to exert all efforts to resume negotiations, with a view to ending the Turkish occupation and to reunifying Cyprus and its people.
Your Excellency,
In welcoming you to Cyprus, I would request you to convey to The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, as well as to His Royal Highness, the Crown Prince and to the friendly people of the Kingdom, my warmest greetings and a message of sincere friendship and solidarity.
I conclude by assuring you, once more, of the support of my government to your valuable mission, so that your tenure will be both constructive and fruitful, and carried out in such a way that the sound relationship that Cyprus enjoys with Saudi Arabia will further flourish.
Ambassador Alshubaili, I warmly welcome you to Cyprus.
(MS/NZ)
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