LOC09:49
06:49 GMT
WASHINGTON, Nov 1 (KUNA) -- US Vice President Joe Biden spoke on Friday with Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades to discuss the strategic partnership between the United States and Cyprus, as well as regional developments, the Office of the Vice President announced.
Biden "expressed his concerns over renewed tensions in the eastern Mediterranean Sea and reiterated that the United States respects the Republic of Cyprus' sovereignty and right to develop resources in its exclusive economic zone, in keeping with customary international law," the Office said.
He also expressed his hope that tensions will be de-escalated through diplomatic efforts and pledged to encourage all states in the region to pursue a mutually beneficial approach to developing energy resources, it added.
The two agreed on the need to reunify the island as a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality and expressed their support for the offices of UN Special Adviser Espen Barth Eide. (end)
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