NICOSIA New Deputy Auditor General Kyriakos Kyriakou was appointed on Tuesday during a ceremony held at the Presidential Palace.

In his speech during the ceremony, President of the Republic Demetris Christofias said that in these difficult times of a global financial crisis, institutions are being tried, pointing out that a powerful and independent audit institution is the corner stone of democracy.

Christofias said that Cyprus’ Audit Office is called to fulfill a very important task, to objectively and reliably assess the financial management of the state, according to its mandate, and to contribute to strengthening the citizens’ trust in the institutions.

He congratulated Kyriakou on his appointment and expressed certainty that he will serve in the best possible way from its new post.

On his part, Kyriakou thanked Christofias for his appointment and pledged to carry out his duties in a responsible and impartial manner.

“Having in mind the increasing role of the Audit Office, due to the difficult financial circumstances, I assure you that in close cooperation with the Auditor General and with my colleagues, we shall focus on the public interest, with respect to the taxpayer,” he said.