N. KOTZIAS: We had a very interesting and friendly meeting with the American Secretary of State. We discussed the problems in our region, especially those in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East. Earlier, we spoke with Wess Mitchell. I think the relations between our two countries are on a positive course. I underscored the need to ensure the region’s security and stability, and I referred in more detail to Turkey’s conduct and the need to support the international rights of the Republic of Cyprus: that Cyprus must not be seen simply as a ‘problem’ for the UN, but as a sovereign state with specific roles and capabilities in the region.I would also like to say that, as you know, I am continuing with meetings in Washington, today and tomorrow. I have meetings on Wednesday morning. Our delegation will then travel to New York. There, I will meet with the UN Secretary-General to discuss the issues and the reforms pertaining to the UN itself, as well as the issues of interest to our country. I will also meet with the President of the UN General Assembly and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Slovakia, Miroslav Lajčák. On Thursday and Friday, we will meet with Mr. Nimetz and the fYROM delegation to continue the negotiations on the name issue and related matters.As is obvious, on the name issue, we support the need to adopt one of the names proposed by Mr. Nimetz – we don’t agree, as you know, with his 5th proposal – and to proceed to the implementation of a strategic plan for friendly cooperation with that country in the future, with its new name. Thank you.JOURNALIST: Did you discuss the Skopje issue with Mr. Pompeo?N. KOTZIAS: No, the Skopje issue was not brought up. We did discuss it with Mr. Mitchell, yesterday and today.JOURNALIST: What exactly was said? Was there any urging to close the issue?N. KOTZIAS: No one is urging us in any particular direction, because Greece has the initiative on this issue, and everyone is watching, in a positive way, how a country with a proactive foreign policy promotes solutions.JOURNALIST: What did he say regarding the issue of military equipment for Turkey?N. KOTZIAS: They have reservations as well.JOURNALIST: Was the matter of the two soldiers raised? N. KOTZIAS: We were asked, and we said that it is unacceptable for a NATO member state to be holding two officers of the Greek Army. But, as you know, Turkey is also holding a number of U.S. citizens in its prisons as well. Thank you.
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