Famagusta Gazette, 08.OCT.09
Cyprus President Dimitris Christofias, left, talks to his Bulgarian counterpart Georgi Parvanov, right, during their official meeting at the Presidency building in the capital of Bulgaria, on Oct. 6, 2008.
Bulgaria expects that the intensification of UN-led negotiations on Cyprus will lead to a final settlement of the Cyprus problem, President of Bulgaria Georgi Parvanov has said, adding that his country supports UN Security Council decisions and respects the right of each side to outline its positions.
Parvanov commended Cyprus President Demetris Christofias on his initiatives to help find a negotiated settlement, saying that discussion can help bridge the gaps between the positions of the Greek Cypriot and the Turkish Cypriot communities.
In an interview with CNA on the occasion of his forthcoming visit to Cyprus on October 9 and 10, Parvanov expressed the belief that his talks in Nicosia will contribute to enhanced bilateral relations and closer ties within the EU.
The Bulgarian President said that Sofia has been following a coordinated policy as an EU member to help build friendly relations and cooperation between the Republic of Cyprus and Turkey, noting that this would not only be in the interest of both countries, but it will also have regional and international ramifications.
Referring to EU enlargement, Parvanov said that it constitutes an important tool to help achieve EU strategic objectives, stability, security and prosperity, noting that his country will support the membership of any candidate for EU accession country, provided it meets the relevant criteria and conditions.