NIcos AnAsTAsIADEs

President of the Republic of Cyprus

NIcos AnAsTAsIADEs

President of the Republic of Cyprus

In the midst of a weak recovery of the global economy，as well as complex international and regional developments， China is leading the “Belt and Road” Initiative，with the aim of promoting regional economic cooperation，strengthening exchanges and mutual learning between different civilizations， and promoting world peace and development. As part of the “Belt and Road” Initiative， a decisive step has been taken with the establishment of the Asian Infrastructure and Investment Bank （AIIB）， showing the high importance of this multilateral development bank for the region. In this regard， Cyprus， recognizing the importance and the scope of this initiative， has already applied to become a regional member of the Bank.

Cyprus， having one of the largest maritime registries in the world， is considered today to be an important international shipping player. Lying at the intersection of Africa，Asia and Europe， Cyprus is a key transit island of the Silk Road Maritime Trade Routes， and can play an important role in successfully promoting the aims and values of the Silk Maritime Road. Cyprus stand ready to cooperate closely with our Chinese， Asian and European partners in effectively supporting this Initiative.