Solution of Cyprus problem must not be imposed from outside - Putin

MOSCOW, October 24. /TASS/. A final solution of the problem of Cyprus must not be imposed by other countries, it is to be achieved by the Cypriots themselves, Russian President Vladimir Putin said after talks with visiting Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades on Tuesday. "We confirmed to Mr. President Russia’s fundamental stance in favor of a comprehensive and fair settlement in Cyprus on the basis of implementing the UN Security Council’s resolution and agreement by the parties concerned," he said. "We believe it is important to ensure a final decision should be made by the Cypriots themselves without outside intervention or dictating of ready-made formulas. Anastasiades thanked Putin for Moscow’s high-principled stance on the Cyprus problem, which rests upon the principles of international law and UN Security Council resolutions. "We say we are prepared for a dialogue on the internal aspects of that (Cypriot) problem," Anastasiades said. "As far as the international aspects of the problem are concerned, I should say there must follow thorough preparations for proper meetings involving the UN Secretary-General and within the UN Security Council’s framework with all permanent members taking part." Read more