Diplomat Menelaos Menelaou on Sunday takes over the duties of Greek Cypriot negotiator for Cyprus talks replacing Andreas Mavroyiannis who will run in the presidential elections with the backing of Akel.

In a statement to CNA, Menelaou said he would do everything he could to fulfil his role keeping in mind the vision for a free, united and federal Cyprus, “a common homeland for all Cypriots”.

“As of today, taking over the duties of the Greek Cypriot negotiator for the Cyprus issue, I want to thank the president for the honour and the trust he is showing me by appointing me,” he added.

He also said he felt the need to refer to the late former presidents Tassos Papadopoulos and Demetris Christofias, who gave him the opportunity to participate in their diplomatic offices and in Cyprus settlement talks that gave him the experience that allowed him to fulfil the role of negotiator today.

He also thanked Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulidis, and Mavroyiannis, as well as all his colleagues at the foreign ministry.