Chinese Ambassador Yantao: China will Play a Constructive Role in Resolving the Cyprus Issue as Always

Liu Yantao, China's Ambassador to South Cyprus, emphasized the bridging role that South Cyprus plays in China-EU relations.

Speaking to Fileleftheros, Liu Yantao described the relations between South Cyprus and China as "two good friends with common principles and values" and noted that they have further developed in 2023. He emphasized that mutual political trust continues to deepen. Liu Yantao also mentioned the good communication between Chinese President Xi Jinping and South Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides throughout the year.

Liu Yantao recalled that Chinese Vice President Han Zheng met with Hristodulidis in New York, and Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of China, Zheng Jianbang, and other high-level officials visited South Cyprus. He stated, "Both countries support each other on issues concerning each other's core interests and concerns, and both adhere to the One China and One Cyprus principles."

Expressing the view that the appointment of the UN Secretary-General's Personal Representative has created a new opportunity for the resolution of the Cyprus issue, Liu Yantao expressed hope that both sides would support Holguin in carrying out her duties. He reiterated that "China will play a positive and constructive role in resolving the Cyprus issue as always."

Liu Yantao highlighted that in 2023, the trade volume between China and South Cyprus reached 1 billion dollars, with a 15.28% increase in Cypriot products exported to China. He noted that the Chinese company Huawei helped improve the speed of the telecommunications network in South Cyprus. Liu Yantao also stated that green transformation projects in energy and transportation, involving Chinese companies, are proceeding as usual.

Liu Yantao concluded by stating, "China and Europe are two major powers promoting multiculturalism, advocating globalization, and supporting cultural diversity. 2023 marks the 20th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and the EU."

He added, "In the past 20 years, we have learned that China and the EU are not competitors but friends. In the face of the complex international situation, China and the EU need to strengthen mutual understanding and trust. Cyprus has always played a bridging role in China-EU relations."

Referring to Chinese President Xi Jinping's recent speech at the Central Foreign Affairs Conference, Liu Yantao stated that Xi provided a detailed explanation of the goals, tasks, and principles of Chinese diplomacy. He emphasized, "Building a shared future for humanity is the main idea of ​​Xi Jinping's diplomatic thinking and the top goal and main line of Chinese diplomacy."

Liu Yantao concluded by saying, "In this context, Chinese diplomacy will adhere to the principles of independence, resilience, justice, cooperation, and mutual benefit in the future. Chinese diplomacy is entering a new stage where it can be more effective. I believe that China-Cyprus relations will also enter a new stage full of hope. China is committed to further strengthening the development continuity of China-Cyprus strategic partnership relations."