OPR- Thursday, 17th February, 2005

Your Excellency, Mme. Papadopoulou

Hon. Prime Minister,

Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen.

It is my pleasure, Excellency, to welcome you and Mme Papadopoulou to the shores of a neighbouring Mediterranean Island and particularly to this Presidential Palace, which dates back to the 16th century. This Palace witnessed the significant changes that have woven the history of our island over the years; from colonial rule, to Independence followed by the birth of the Republic. In 1991, this same Palace, welcomed one of your predecessors, President Vassiliou, at a State Visit. Then our countries were still at the beginning of the long road of negotiations to become members of the European Union, a goal which today, we have both reached.

Excellency,

Malta and Cyprus share a strong affinity embedded in the rich history and geography of our countries. Located at the crossroads of civilisations, our countries have witnessed the passing of powers from one civilisation to another. Every civilisation has left its influence on our respective islands to give us a unique cultural blend and character that both our countries can boast of having today.

Cyprus like Malta is a cultural treasure dating back to ancient times. The Curium amphitheatre, the Odeon and the Kolossi Castle are some examples of the many ancient relics that contribute to the timeless character, which lives in Cyprus today. Remains of Roman villas like the Houses of Theseus, Achilles and Dionysus, whose mosaic floors, portraying scenes of Greek mythology, are regarded as the finest in the world, are real jewels that enrich the World’s cultural heritage.

Excellency,

Recent events enabled our countries to share a common memory; the 1st of May of last year when we celebrated the historic accession of our countries in this Maison Commune, for the European Union is indeed our common home. 

This enlargement opened a new chapter in the history of the European continent symbolising the unification of Europe and the end of the East-West confrontation. Now we can truly speak of a community of States, who have willingly parted with past rivalries, to work together for the accomplishment of common goals.

The European Constitution, which was signed in Rome three months ago, when ratified, would be another major political achievement. It enshrines a set of principles we all hold dear: democracy, rule of law, respect for human rights and human dignity, liberty and equality. It gives each and every European citizen a sense of belonging and it brings the Peoples of the 25 member States closer together notwithstanding the cultural and linguistic diversities that exist. Culture breeds unity among members. The European Union is an excellent example of unity in diversity. How true was Jean Monnet’s vision way back in 1952 when during a visit to Washington he stated,

“We do not merge countries, we unite Peoples.”

Excellency,

Recent developments on the Green Line Regulation are encouraging.  Thousands of Turkish Cypriots now cross the Line every day for work boosting economic growth in the south and taking back home an estimated $180 million a year.

Excellency,

As two relatively small members within the European Union who have shared diplomatic relations for thirty-three years, I am confident that our two countries will continue to work together on issues of common interests especially with regards to the Mediterranean. Our region is still shadowed by a curtain of prejudice and misconception. It is true that events taking place in this volatile area leave very little space for imagination, however just as much as it can be an area of enormous divides and conflicts, the Mediterranean region can turn into an area of peace and prosperity.

Malta has always advocated that European security and Mediterranean stability is inherently linked. Indeed one of Malta’s traditional pillars in foreign policy has always been to act as a bridge between Europe and North Africa to promote dialogue and understanding between the two sides. The 10th anniversary of the Euro-Mediterranean Process later on this year provides excellent timing. The 25 Member States have an ideal opportunity to re-define their goals and re-launch the Process.

In a similar vein, I feel, that this mission of bridge-building applies to your country as well. Geography too, has placed Cyprus at a strategic crossroad of three continents, Europe, Africa and Asia; a crucial starting point for Alexander the Great’s expanding empire. Your country can be an important interlocutor of dialogue between these three continents. The Middle East has now become a thirty-minute flight from the nearest border of the European Union:  that is Cyprus. This proximity provides the European Union with an important challenge to involve itself more actively in the region.

Excellency,

The past month has already heralded a new dawn for democracy with the elections in Ukraine, Iraq and Palestine. The elections in Palestine and Iraq are rays of hope following years of violence in the region. Malta has always supported efforts that could lead to a just and everlasting solution to the Middle East conflict. Economic prosperity can only flourish when there is stability and security. The Summit that took place last week between the Israeli Premier Ariel Sharon and the Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas in Sharm el-Sheikh and their declaration of cease-fire, were a historic feat. Hopefully the way is paved for an end of the four-year old intifada. This declaration is an important achievement for both sides, the first important step on the road to dialogue and a viable and just solution. Ultimately this can lead to the creation of a Palestinian State alongside the State of Israel, with their respective peoples living side by side in peace and harmony. Even the Iraqi People, by participating in the democratic elections, sent a clear signal that they too want to break with the past and believe in a better future. This is the starting point of a new era for development, prosperity and stability in Iraq.

Solutions to differences and divergence in opinions can only be found through dialogue and negotiation and not through violence, or acts of terrorism. Terrorism is becoming an ever-increasing threat to the stability and security of the global international community and its containment lies in multi-lateral solutions. The role of the United Nations and adherence to its legal framework is of utmost importance to fight this threat of our times.

Excellency,

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations our countries have both enjoyed friendly relations but there is still room to explore new avenues for co-operation. I look forward to working with you during the coming years to enhance this cooperation and to help build a strong future for our Peoples in an ever-more effective European Union. 

History has it that both our countries were British colonies and hence we both share a Commonwealth heritage. In November this year, Malta will be hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. Hence it will be our pleasure that Malta welcomes you once again on its shores later this year.

With these thoughts in mind, I invite you, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, to raise your glass and to toast to the health of President Papadopoulos and Madame Papadopoulou to the friendship between the Governments and People of Malta and Cyprus.