Cyprus News Agency: News in English, 12-05-17

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From: The Cyprus News Agency at <http://www.cyna.org.cy>

CONTENTS

[01] President welcomes remarks by German FM

[02] Government measures to solve banking problems

[03] �all at Presidential Palace inaugurated for EU presidency

[04] Omonia AC wins Cyprus football Cup

[01] President welcomes remarks by German FM

Christofias stressed that Cyprus is in close contact with the European Commission in order to prevent any move that would violate the European Council's decisions on the opening of Turkey's EU negotiating chapters.

Speaking on the sidelines of the inauguration ceremony of a new modern hall at the Presidential Palace, President Christofias said that the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU consolidates the statehood of the Republic of Cyprus.

"Exercising the EU Presidency is a recognition of the sovereignty and the statehood of the Republic of Cyprus, in that Cyprus is being recognized, one more time, as an equal member of the EU", he said.

Called to comment on a statement by the German Foreign Minister, Christofias said this was "a very positive statement."

On reports about opening the chapter on energy in Turkey's accession negotiations, the President noted that the government is in close contact with the EU Commissioner for Enlargement Stefan Fule in order to prevent any decision that might violate European Council's decisions.

Asked about the statements made yesterday by UN Secretary General`s Special Adviser on Cyprus Alexander Downer that convening a multilateral conference during the summer is still on the table, he said the issue will stay on the agenda.

Turkey refuses to open its ports and airspace to Cypriot vessels and aircraft, contrary to its obligations, as defined in the Additional Protocol, extending the Ankara Protocol to all new member states, including the Republic of Cyprus.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied 37 per cent of its territory. Turkey, which does not recognize the Republic of Cyprus, has threatened it would freeze its relations with the EU during the Cypriot EU Presidency.

[02] Government measures to solve banking problems

Speaking at the Presidential Palace, President Christofias noted that the problems the banks are facing are manageable and for that reason decisions are taken.

Asked if today's Cabinet meeting is the result of his statement yesterday that Cyprus will overcome economic problems, President Christofias pointed out that the issue of the banks is very serious.

"We are trying to take all necessary measures in cooperation with the European Commission, in order to deal with this very difficult issue of the Cypriot economy. I would say that this issue is the problem of the Cypriot economy today", he said.

[03] �all at Presidential Palace inaugurated for EU presidency

The decision to proceed with the construction of the new building was taken last year, given the increasing needs in view of the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU, which begins in July.

The inauguration ceremony took place in the presence of members of the Council of Ministers, foreign diplomats accredited to Cyprus and other officials.

In his speech, President Christofias said that the hall will host receptions, banquets and other events held during the Cypriot presidency of the EU Council and it constitutes a new addition to the historic building of the existing Presidential Palace.

Referring to the assumption of the EU presidency by Cyprus in July, he described it an important national target and said that its successful completion would bring significant benefits to the country.

[04] Omonia AC wins Cyprus football Cup

The Nicosia club defeated yesterday night Champions AEL FC of Limassol with 1-0 in the Cup Final, in a packed GSP stadium.

Omonia scored in the 17th minute with Andre Alves. AEL had to fight with one player short as Edwin Ouon was sent off with a red card.

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