Le Drian says France stands ready to help Cyprus

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian says Cyprus and France and the presidents of the two countries both wish for further cooperation, while also expressing support for restarting peace talks.

Le Drian, who was on working visit to Nicosia on Friday, held a press conference alongside his counterpart, Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides, following their meeting.

"Cooperation between the countries is impeccable," Le Drian said, noting that French warships dock in the island and expressing thanks to the authorities of the Republic of Cyprus.

The French top diplomat also expressed support for the ongoing efforts to reach a settlement to the Cyprus issue, highlighting that a solution ought to be compatible with the European acquis.

Le Drian also expressed the view that following Cyprus' accession into the EU in 2004, "the Cyprus issue became a...