Russia–Cyprus Diplomatic Relations Mark 66 Years as Ambassador Highlights Enduring Historical Friendship
Dragon Media News Desk
Russian Ambassador to Cyprus Dr Murat Ziazikov has said relations between Russia and Cyprus are rooted in deep historical, cultural and spiritual ties, arguing that external circumstances cannot undermine the longstanding friendship between the peoples of the two countries.
Speaking to the TASS news agency on the 66th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and Cyprus, Ziazikov recalled that formal ties between the two countries were established on August 18, 1960.
Cyprus declared independence from British colonial rule on August 16, 1960, and two days later the Soviet Union established diplomatic relations with the newly independent state. According to the ambassador, Moscow responded immediately and positively to an invitation from Cyprus’ first president, Archbishop Makarios III, to develop cooperation at a new level.
Ziazikov also recalled that Cyprus was included in the world tour of Yuri Gagarin, the first human to travel into space, in early 1962, describing the visit as another important symbol of the warmth that characterised relations between Moscow and Nicosia.
According to the ambassador, Russian–Cypriot relations extend far beyond modern diplomatic engagement. He said Russian sailors, merchants, clergy and pilgrims had for centuries found refuge and a sense of spiritual affinity in Cyprus, creating a durable foundation for relations between the two societies.
Although Cyprus is a member of the European Union and conducts its foreign policy in line with the bloc’s broader framework, Ziazikov said Cypriot authorities at both national and local levels continue to show respect for the cultural and civic activities of Russian citizens living on the island.
He said the authorities have provided security and organisational support for literary festivals, exhibitions, film screenings, school and student competitions, car rallies and large-scale events associated with Victory Day commemorations.
The ambassador also noted that members of Cyprus’ business and cultural communities, as well as politicians and diplomats, have continued to participate in events involving the Russian community and organisations maintaining friendly relations with Russia.
Ziazikov said voting for elections to the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation would also be organised in Cyprus in September.
He expressed confidence that the voting process would be conducted in an orderly manner, similar to arrangements made for the Russian presidential election in March 2024.
The ambassador said Moscow appreciates the approach taken by Cypriot authorities towards Russian citizens residing on the island and expressed confidence that the historically rooted trust between the Russian and Cypriot peoples would continue despite changes in the broader international environment.
