UK minister begins 3-day Cyprus visit

LONDON (AA) – Britain’s Europe minister Alan Duncan has started a three-day visit to Cyprus as peace talks continued between leaders of the island’s two communities.

The visit beginning Tuesday is Duncan’s first since he was appointed to the role in July by the U.K.’s new Prime Minister, Theresa May.

During his visit Duncan will meet Mustafa Akinci, president of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and Greek Cypriot leader Nicos Anastasiades.

“The U.K. has strong and enduring links with Cyprus. Our relationship is based on shared history, close personal links and common values, including as members of the Commonwealth,” Duncan said in a statement.

“Our commitment to the relationship between our two countries is steadfast and will only get stronger.

“The U.K. fully supports the current settlement process and stands ready to help in any way it can in order to bring lasting peace to Cyprus.

“I look forward to meeting those involved in this Cypriot-led process and am encouraged by the efforts of the two leaders,” the statement added.

Duncan added he commended Anastasiades and Akinci for their “continued courage and leadership.”

Duncan’s visit began on the day it emerged UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon may host the island’s two community leaders at a meeting at the end of this month.

The Cyprus Mail quoted Anastasiades as saying Sept. 25 or 26 were days being discussed for the summit.

Akinci and Anastasiades have been engaged in an intensified round of peace talks expected to conclude on Sept. 14.