Cyprus Lauds Iran’s Influential Role in Mideast Stability

Cypriot acting deputy foreign minister praised Iran’s outstanding role in the settlement of conflicts in the region and appreciated Tehran’s principled stances.

Speaking in a meeting with the visiting Iranian foreign minister in Larnaca on Tuesday, the Cypriot top diplomat voiced pleasure in Salehi’s visit to his country and described the talks and consultations between the two sides as “constructive”.

He further said Iran plays “an effective and constructive role” in the settlement of conflicts and maintenance of security and stability in the region, and praised Iran’s principled stances.

The senior diplomat also briefed Salehi about the latest developments in his country and in the European Union, and elaborated on his views about regional issues.

The Iranian foreign minister arrived in Larnaca earlier today to invite Cypriot president to the upcoming summit of the Non-Aligned Movement in Tehran in August.

Also during his daylong stay in Cyprus, Salehi met with Cypriot President Dimitris Christofias and conveyed Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s verbal invitation to him.

At the meeting, the two sides also discussed bilateral ties and cooperation and reviewed the latest developments in Iran’s relations with the EU.

Christofias, whose country is due to take the rotating presidency of the EU in the near future, said that during Cyprus’s presidency, he will make his utmost efforts to further develop the ties between Iran and the EU, and expressed the hope that a new chapter in the two sides’ relations would start after obviating the misunderstandings.

“Our intention and view about Iran has been positive and this attitude will continue,” he added.

Christofias also reiterated that his country officials will attend the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) summit in Tehran at a high level.