"The new aspect in the search for settlement on the island is added to the Cypriote problem by the European vector. It has taken shape in view of the full-fledged membership of the Republic of Cyprus in the European Union and the process of Turkey's integration into Europe. The EU decision to start talks with Turkey on October 3, 2005 on its accession to the EU creates new conditions for the solution of the problem of Cyprus," Abramov said.
According to him, Russia proceeds from the UN Security Council's key role in Cyprus settlement.
He remarked that the Annan's plan could promote settlement.
"Given the results of voting in both the communities of Cyprus in April 2004, it is clear that certain amendments should be introduced into Annan's plan. Cypriots themselves are to decide on these changes", Abramov added.
He recalled that Moscow shared the position on the need to boost the economic development of Turkish Cypriots.
"Russia comes out for the elimination of barriers in the economic contacts between the two communities in Cyprus. Economic cooperation should pave the way for subsequent political cooperation," stressed the Russian diplomat.
Russia intends to promote the Cyprus settlement both within the framework of the UN Security Council and at the level of contacts between representatives of the two Cypriot communities and other involved parties, Abramov said.
