Athens News Agency: News in English, 05-08-18

Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article

From: The Athens News Agency at <http://www.ana.gr/>

CONTENTS

[01] Karamanlis, Papadopoulos discuss latest Cyprus developments, airliner tragedy

[01] Karamanlis, Papadopoulos discuss latest Cyprus developments, airliner tragedy

Athens and Nicosia's common stance vis-a-vis EU hopeful Turkey's standing refusal to recognize the island republic and EU member-state, even as Ankara extended a customs union protocol with the 10 new EU members, was initially the main item on an agenda of talks between the Greek and Cypriot leaderships.

"Our strategic choices are well known and remain steadfast, because we believe that they serve our interests and also fulfil the wishes of our people for peace and stability in the region," Karamanlis said afterwards.

Furthermore, the Greek premier stressed that Athens and Nicosia's next moves will take place within the "European Union's relevant organs", before referring to an upcoming COREPER (Permanent Representatives Committee) session and an informal council of EU foreign ministers.

On his part, Papadopoulos stressed that "we have established our strategy and approach ... our position, namely, of working within the EU framework to achieve the best possible (results) for the promotion of a Cyprus solution and dealing whatever problems arise, is unchanged."

Airliner tragedy

Karamanlis, meanwhile, again expressed the Greek people's condolences and solidarity over the downing of a Helios Airways airliner on Sunday, which claimed the lives of 121 passengers and crewmembers.

Moreover, he reiterated Athens' volition to pinpoint the causes of the accident.

"An investigation is moving quickly. Both governments will continue to work closely together, this is the least we can do as part of our obligation towards the victims and their families," Karamanlis emphasised.

Papadopoulos again thanked Athens for its support and immediate response, while praising the treatment Greek authorities afforded the families of the victims.

Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article