Demetriou and Pellegrini discuss Cyprus problem and bilateral cooperation in Bratislava

Bratislava, Slovakia. House President Annita Demetriou met Slovak President Peter Pellegrini on Monday during a visit to Bratislava, discussing the Cyprus problem, bilateral relations and cooperation within the European Union.

Cyprus problem and European cooperation

Speaking after the meeting, Demetriou said she had briefed Pellegrini on the latest developments regarding the Cyprus problem and expressed appreciation for Slovakia’s longstanding principled stance.

Related: Disy leader Demetriou calls for reunified Cyprus at Oxi anniversary event in Larnaca

RelatedDisy leader Demetriou calls for reunified Cyprus at Oxi anniversary event in Larnaca

She also thanked him for Slovakia’s participation in the United Nations peacekeeping force in Cyprus and its contribution to efforts for peace and stability in the country.

“We share the conviction that dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for international law constitute the only path for resolving differences regarding all the issues we are called upon to manage,” she said.

Demetriou said they had also discussed “the European dimension” and the importance of cooperation and mutual support between the two countries on matters of principle and shared priorities within the European Union.

“Further strengthening relations between Cyprus and Slovakia can create new opportunities for cooperation for the benefit of both peoples,” she said.

Slovakia’s role in Cyprus

Slovak peacekeepers are responsible for Sector Four of the UN buffer zone in Cyprus, which stretches from east of Nicosia to the island’s east coast. The exception is the British Dhekelia base, which acts as the de facto buffer zone between the villages of Pyla and Strovilia.

The Slovak embassy in Nicosia also organises regular meetings of representatives of political parties from both sides of Cyprus’ divide at the Ledra Palace hotel in Nicosia’s buffer zone.

Warning over lack of progress

Last week, Demetriou lamented that “we do not have the result we would have wanted after the United Nations general assembly”, with the island’s two sides ending the general assembly week further apart than when it began.

The lack of progress prompted UN Cyprus problem envoy Maria Angela Holguin to warn that “it is clear that the favourable window of opportunity we had throughout last year and earlier this year is gradually closing”.