First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior Ivica Dacic stated today he was told by Cypriot Demetris Christofias that Cyrus will remain consistent and will not recognise the unilaterally declared independence of Kosovo, even if all other EU members do so.

Dacic told the FoNet news agency that the Cypriot President once again expressed Cyprus’ support for Serbia’s EU integration and their hope that Serbia will soon become a candidate for membership and then a full EU member.

The Interior Minister said that Serbia and Cyprus have signed a cooperation agreement concerning interior affairs and justice, which needs to be ratified in parliament, after which cooperation will be more effective. He reiterated that Serbia should continue to expand relations with friendly countries.

During the past two days Dacic has also met with Cypriot Interior Minister Neoklis Sylikiotis, Minister of Justice and Public Order Loukas Louka, Police Chief Michalis Papageorgiou, Parliament Speaker Marios Garoyian and representatives of the leading political parties. He also visited the “green line” which divided Cyprus.

Sylikiotis said that Cyprus is interested in expanding cooperation with Serbia and wishes to support Serbia on its path to the EU by sharing experiences, particularly concerning the prevention of illegal immigration.

He stressed that efforts are being made within the EU to create a joint policy on immigration and asylum, adding that Cyprus plays an important role in the EU regarding this issue.

Dacic and Sylikiotis also talked about the issue of the status of the Serbian citizens living and working in Cyprus. Sylikiotis accepted an invitation by Dacic to visit Serbia.