U.S. Secretary Kerry says solution to Cypriot issue is within reach

Gazzetta team
U.S. Secretary Kerry says solution to Cypriot issue is within reach
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said on Thursday a Cyprus there is “tangible progress in Cyprus” and that a solution was within reach, following separate meetings with Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades and Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci, during his one-day visit on the island.

He did not answer questions by journalists.

He said this confedence on a solution was reinforced after today’s meetings. “This is Cyprus’ moment,” he noted, saying the solution will not come automatically, but it will come. He also said he was impressed by the two leaders who, as he noted, are working hard to find a solution.

The U.S. Secretary said that a lasting and durable solution will have benefits for Cyprus and the entire region. "Cyprus will become a business center. It will become a model for other lands that need a multiethnic future," he said.

Kerry noted the international community has a responsibility to support a solution to the Cypriot solution and reassured both sides that the U.S will do what they must, including providing technical and financial support.

After the meeting, Anastasiades tweeted to say his talks with Kerry were positive and productive.

The U.S. Secretary concluded his visit to Cyprus and is expected in Athens on Friday, where he will meet Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras at 11.40 (local time) at his office, and then Foreign Minister Nikos Kotzias at 12.30.