STEFANOS EVRIPIDOU interviews the outgoing British High Commissioner Peter Millett. The Ambassador was bound by the restrictions imposed by the British government on civil servants, known as purdah, in the run-up to next month’s UK general elections, prohibiting any questions on politics or policy. He will be replaced in Cyprus by British diplomat Matthew Kidd.
Q What were your first impressions of Cyprus when you arrived to take up your post and how have those changed now that you are leaving?
A My first impressions were dominated by the job. This was my first time as a Head of Mission and the enormous responsibility that comes with it. I found a huge welcome, not only in the High Commission but everywhere I went. Opening doors was easy, making contact with officials and business people was always a pleasure and there were huge opportunities. Over time I have found that many of those professional contacts have become friends. But I also found over time the large amount of common ground we could develop between the UK and Cyprus especially as common partners in the European Union. We have developed collaboration on a wide range of issues such as environment, tourism and education as well as specific initiatives on areas like football hooliganism and road safety. The business environment for British companies in Cyprus and for Cypriot companies in the UK is positive and we have helped to boost those links to the benefit of both countries.
Q What are the attributes of Cyprus that would lure you back and what are the drawbacks?
A Cyprus has so much to offer that it is difficult to identify specific attributes. Certainly we would want to come back to visit our many friends on the island. We leave with many fond memories of various locations on the coast and in the mountains. There are many areas of unspoilt beauty where we have relaxed, walked or cycled.
Q Do you intend on returning?
A We would certainly want to return in our private capacity, not least because our oldest daughter Emily will continue to live here. I am sure also that my wife June will want to follow the progress of her initiative to set up a specialist eating disorders unit in Cyprus.
Q Do you believe that any British ambassador in Cyprus will be ‘damned if they do, and dammed if they don’t’?
A The job can certainly be challenging. But I have always tried to correct misperceptions of the UK’s policy towards Cyprus. Press comment is inevitable. I recall Oscar Wilde saying that the only thing worse than being talked about is not being talked about. But it is important to distinguish rumour from fact. The fact is that the UK is a friend of Cyprus and we fully support President Christofias’ objective of reunifying this island.
Q On a personal level, what have you learnt in the last five years in terms of your own development?
A I think I have learnt that listening and patience are important qualities for anyone in public life but particularly for diplomats. Appreciating how people think, especially in a place where there is a political dispute, is a crucial way of understanding and supporting efforts at reconciliation. I will certainly take that lesson with me for the future.
