role as an important factor in stabilizing the situation in the eastern Mediterranean, As is well known, the Government of Cyprus and its President have many times affirmed their adherence to the ideas of peace, security and mutual co-operation with other States. It is .quite obvious, and may be stated with conviction, that that position has found and will continue to find broad support and solidarity on the part of all peace-loving forces and of international public opinion. 53. As has already been pointed out more than once, there is and can be no doubt that the settlement of Cyprus’ internal problems is a question for Cypriots themselves. The legitimate rights of Cypriots, whether Greek or Turkish, must be respected by all, The Cyprus question can and should be settled without any interference from outside. 54. The Soviet Union firmly opposes any attempt to infringe on the sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus or to settle the question of Cyprus without consulting its people, to the detriment of their vital interests and to the advantage of outside imperialist forces. In that connexion, the Soviet delegation would like to repeat once again that the USSR continues to insist that, in order to guarantee the inde- pendence, integrity and sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus, all foreign forces should be withdrawn from its territory and all foreign military bases on its territory removed. 55. Cyprus is located near one of the “hot spots” in international relations, the Middle East region, where the risk of a new armed conflict is stilf present. It is our hope that the examination of the situation in the MiddIe East in the Security Council, the first stage of which has only just ended, will help to make a significant contribution to the 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing the political situation in the Eastern Mediterranean, specifically in Cyprus, and the role of international actors in resolving the conflict. It emphasizes the importance of respecting the sovereignty of Cyprus and the need for a settlement that does not involve outside interference.

**Category**
International relations, Politics