§ 20. Sir David MadelTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on progress in the proximity talks concerning the future of Cyprus. [158629]
§ Mr. VazThe UK continues to believe that the current UN settlement process, launched in December 1999 by the UN Secretary-General, offers the best chance of achieving both a just and lasting settlement in Cyprus and one which can take into account the vital concerns of both sides. We regret the current lack of progress in the talks but are confident that the UN will find a way to move the process forward. To that end we will continue to urge all those involved to be fully and positively engaged in the search for a solution.
§ 30. Mr. LoveTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on relations between Her Majesty's Government and the Government of Cyprus. [158639]
§ Mr. VazCyprus is an important partner for the UK. Our relationship is underpinned by common membership of the Commonwealth, Cyprus' EU candidacy, our close trading links, significant tourism and frequent contacts at ministerial and official level. My visit to the island in March allowed me to have valuable meetings with President Clerides, Foreign Minister Kasoulides and Chief EU Negotiator Vassiliou during which I reiterated UK support for the UN settlement process and Cyprus' EU accession.