January 29, 2009 - www.financialmirror.com
A lot has been said about the new U.S. administration’s commitment and the Democrats’ willingness towards helping find a swift and fair solution to the Cyprus problem. However, the responses Acting Spokesman Robert Wood gave to journalists during Monday’s press briefing at the State Dept. in Washington, DC, could only be described as “mixed signals”.
Here is the transcript, which also makes for amusing reading:
QUESTION: Yes. On Cyprus, Mr. Wood, the UN Special Envoy to Cyprus Alexander Downer stated last Saturday, “There is a real possibility of reaching finally a settlement here.” Do you have anything to say about this optimism, since the U.S. Government is involved too on the talks between the two sides?
MR. WOOD: Look, we’re – we certainly are hopeful and we hope that there can be an agreement reached between the two parties, but I don’t have any further update for you on that, Mr. Lambros.
QUESTION: And one more question. Is the Cyprus issue among the priorities of Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton?
MR. WOOD: Absolutely. It’s a priority for the Secretary. It’s a priority for President Obama. It’s also a priority for the international community.
QUESTION (other reporter): I’m sorry, Robert. Where in the world exactly isn’t a priority for the Secretary? You said that she’s focused on Zimbabwe.
MR. WOOD: Yeah.
QUESTION: You said that she’s focused on Cyprus.
MR. WOOD: Yes.
QUESTION: You said that she’s focused on Kosovo. You said that she’s – is there anyplace that she isn’t really focused?
MR. WOOD: As you know, the Secretary has global responsibilities. There are a number of countries and issues that are priorities. I see nothing wrong with what I’ve said.
QUESTION: Well, no, I’m not suggesting there isn’t anything wrong with what you’ve said. I’m just wondering if there is anyplace on the earth that she isn’t focused on.
MR. WOOD: Well, she’s just come into office. Give her some time.
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