The speaker of Ireland’s parliament Seán Ó Fearghaíl said Thursday his country supports a Cyprus settlement that is based on the principles as expounded by the United Nations.

Addressing a special session of the House of Representatives in Nicosia, the Irish politician said they support the model for a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation, that would lead to an “honest, balanced and lasting settlement” safeguarding the rights of all Cypriots.

Noting that the UN peacekeeping force’s mandate will come up for renewal in a few weeks’ time, Ó Fearghaíl said the UN principles are “the only right way forward.”

In his remarks, he mentioned that since 1964 more than 10,000 soldiers have served with the Irish contingent in Unficyp.

Earlier, Ó Fearghaíl held a courtesy meeting with House president Annita Demetriou, during which the two officials pledged to strengthen cooperation between their respective parliaments.

Demetriou later said that through “this enhanced cooperation we will be able to do a great deal more, and in the process highlight the role and importance of parliamentary diplomacy.”

On Ó Fearghaíl’s official visit to the island, Demetriou called it “very significant, as it underlines the strong bonds between Cyprus and Ireland that are based on principles and values.”