Cyprus Airways to return?

Tuesday, 18 September 2012 01:28 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Cheranka Mendis

Negotiations are ongoing to bring back Mediterranean carrier Cyprus Airways to fly to Sri Lanka thanks to the tourism boom experienced in both countries.

Honorary Consul of Cyprus Premanie Perera yesterday announced that discussions were currently underway to bring back the airline, which conducted operations for eight months in 2004.

The airline pulled back due to internal issues as well as the country not being a viable commercial destination for Cyprus. “Times have changed now and Sri Lanka is back again on the map for aviation and airlines. We see that this is a fitting time for both countries to recommence the partnership,” Perera said.

She noted that Cyprus being of Greek orthodox would offer Christians many opportunities to visit the likes of Israel and Jerusalem on pilgrimages which are only two hours and 40 minutes respectively from Cyprus.

“Tourism is booming in both countries. Starting direct flights to and fro between the countries would strengthen the country ties and help support an industry that both countries look forward to developing.”

Annually Cyprus welcomes some three million tourists, she said.

Currently there are over 25,000 Sri Lankans working in Cyprus earning an approximate EUR 500 on a monthly basis. Majority of those working in Cyprus are working under labour class categories.

A large number of students also travel to Cyprus from Sri Lanka as the educational qualifications offered there are of a lower cost than studying in other Western countries such as the UK and the USA.

“Cyprus is also very conducive to Buddhism. There is a major Buddhist temple in Cyprus which follows all festivals and ceremonies as in Sri Lanka,” she said.

The two countries formed and strengthened partnership in 1976 during the Non Aligned Summit held in Sri Lanka, Perera said.