President Bharrat Jagdeo and Cyprus President Demetris Christofias have agreed that small countries must join forces and coordinate their actions on global financial matters in order to protect their interests during the current economic crisis.
According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release the leaders agreed on this position following official meetings since Jagdeo’s arrival on Monday. Jagdeo also reaffirmed Guyana’s position of respect for the territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus and agreed to take steps to promote and further develop relations between the two countries. He also pointed out that Guyana has always voiced firm support on the Cyprus territorial issue in the United Nations and the Commonwealth.
Jagdeo also said since the interests of smaller countries are sometimes different to those of the larger ones, they should engage in more exchanges not only to find solutions to common problems but to “ensure that any policies designed, either economic or trade worldwide can incorporate the wealth of these nations.”
According to the Cyprus News Agency, Christofias welcomed Jagdeo warmly, saying that his visit will be a “landmark for the development of the friendly ties between Cyprus and Guyana.” The leaders agreed that their foreign ministers will develop common activities and contact for addressing issues relating to their interests. GINA said too ambassadors will be appointed to both countries and Guyanese students will be able to pursue scholarships in the forestry and tourism fields.
Meanwhile the release said Jagdeo also met with President of the Cyprus House of Representatives Marios Garoyian and Archbishop of Cyprus Chrysostomos II. He was also the special guest at a banquet Christofias hosted at the Presidential Palace.
The Republic of Cyprus is an island in the Mediterranean and a popular tourist destination attracting over two million tourists per year. It became independent of British rule in 1960 and a member of the Commonwealth in 1961. It is also a member of the European Union since 2004 and has one of the most advanced economies in the region.
