|
Dear Eli, first of all, let me
welcome you to Cyprus. The circumstances have changed dramatically since our
first meeting back in March. Today is an opportunity to reiterate Cyprus’
approach, which is guided by the following principles, at these difficult
times.
First, as we have repeatedly
and unequivocally stated, Cyprus condemns, in the strongest possible terms,
the 7th of October terrorist attacks by Hamas.
Secondly, we demand the
immediate and unconditional release of all the hostages as well as ensuring
immediate humanitarian access to them.
Thirdly, we all agree that all
civilians must be protected in accordance with international humanitarian
law. Furthermore, Cyprus supports the efforts underway in the European Union
(EU) to fully cut off Hamas’ resources, its infrastructure and facilitation.
Ultimately, Cyprus sees the
revival of the Middle East Peace Process, on the basis of a two-state
solution, in line with the relevant UN resolutions, as the only way forward.
We believe this is the only way to ensure conditions of sustainable security
and stability for Israelis and Palestinians alike. It is also a crucial step
for ensuring the stability of the region.
As the humanitarian needs
escalate, so does the urgency for the need to act. Cyprus’ maritime corridor
plan provides for a compact logistical hub. For the safe provision of a
sustained flow of high-volume humanitarian assistance to the civilians in
Gaza, through a dedicated one-way maritime corridor. For the present, for the
medium-term and for the long-term.
We are here in the Coordination
Centre “Zenon” in Larnaca, which forms part of the integral facilities for
Amalthea’s operationalisation, which is based on the provision of a compact,
trusted secure logistical hub.
Today, we had the opportunity
to be briefed on the current operations and the level of preparations. We
have just visited the facilities here at the Coordination Centre and we will
proceed to visit the facilities at the Larnaca port.
The aim is for humanitarian
assistance for civilians in the Gaza Strip to be collected, stored, secured
and rigorously inspected before loading on a vessel – all done here in Cyprus
and, needless to say, the purpose is to complement and scale-up current routes.
I want to reiterate that Cyprus
stands ready to provide this maritime lifeline.
Dear Eli, our aim, with which I
know you agree, is to act. It is a commitment to commence now and evolve into
what we hope will be a long-term enterprise; one in which the considerations
of all key stakeholders are taken on board.
Cyprus stands ready. We look
forward to your green light for the first voyage.
Dear Eli, once again, it is a
great pleasure to have you here.
(MF/GS/AP)
|
