Foreign Minister Dimitris Avramopoulos met today with the UN Secretary General’s Special Adviser on Cyprus, Alexander Downer. During the meeting, Mr. Avramopoulos stressed Greece’s support for Mr. Downer’s mandate and mission, underscoring that the Cyprus issue is first and foremost an issue of respect for the principles, values and regulations of the international community and international law.
In this context, it is imperative that a solution be reached within the parameters set by the Resolutions of the United Nations and the membership of the Republic of Cyprus in the European Union. Mr. Downer briefed Mr. Avramopoulos on the stagnancy that exists in the negotiation process, stressing the relevant responsibilities of the Turkish Cypriot leadership and Turkey for the lack of progress. Following the meeting, the Foreign Ministry’s Secretary General, Ambassador Vassilis Kaskarelis, hosted a working luncheon for Mr. Downer.