ATHENS, October 19 (RIA Novosti) - New Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou is to pay a two-day official visit to Nicosia on Monday, in order to discuss the Cyprus issue, the government's press service reported.

The Greek prime minister is expected to meet with Cypriot President Demetris Christofias and representatives of country's political parties during his stay in the Cypriot capital.

Papandreou, 57, was sworn in as prime minister on October 6, after his Socialist PASOK party won a majority of 160 seats in the 300-seat parliament on the back of campaign pledge to fight corruption and tackle Greece's worst economic recession in years.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded the north in response to a military coup on the island that was backed by Athens. The Turkish Cypriot state is recognized only by Turkey.

The Cyprus issue is a major obstacle to Turkish membership in the European Union.

On Friday, the Greek prime minister said the Cyprus question remains a top priority in Greece's foreign policy. He said Turkey should respect international law and contribute to a solution of the issue.

UN-mediated talks, aimed at the reunification of Cyprus, are being held between the leaders of the Greek and the Turkish parts of the island.