Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov assured the President of Cyprus that Russia is ready to help the Republic reduce tension in the region and will promote effective dialogue to find mutually acceptable solutions in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Lavrov, who was welcomed on Tuesday by President Nikos Anastasiades at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia, said that Russia has always supported the sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus.

Lavrov did not avoid commenting on U.S. efforts in the region, saying that “external players” insist on conflict instead of peace.

“There are external players, such as the U.S., who try to pursue a policy of action, but it contributes to conflict, not to peaceful solutions,” Lavrov said.

“Compromise and dialogue are the only ways to achieve peaceful solutions,” the Russian minister added.

President Anastasiades told Lavrov that his visit to mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries was a confirmation of relations distinguished by mutual respect, mutual support and solidarity.

“We pay special attention to your visit during Turkey’s illegal activities in the Eastern Mediterranean, its threats to the illegal settlement of the Exclusion Zone in Famagusta and, in general, a very critical moment in the violation of international law and order,” said Anastasiades.