FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

U.S. Embassy
February 19, 2003

Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs

Announcement on Election in Cyprus

We congratulate Mr. Tassos Papadopoulos on his election as the fifth President of the Republic of Cyprus.  The United States has a strong relationship with Cyprus, and both countries have benefited from our cooperation in the war on terrorism and other vital issues.  We look forward to building further on that foundation.  We also thank outgoing President Clerides both for his significant contributions to the cause of peace on the island and for our strong bilateral relationship during his administration.

Mr. Papadopoulos takes office at an historic moment for Cyprus.  The UN Secretary General’s initiative, which the United States strongly supports, holds out the opportunity for Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots to achieve a just and comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem.  We urge both sides to seize this unique opportunity.  A settlement would enable all Cypriots to benefit from the accession of a reunified Cyprus to the European Union and make a lasting contribution to regional security.