Cyprus News Agency: News in English, 09-08-26

Cyprus News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article

From: The Cyprus News Agency at <http://www.cyna.org.cy>

CONTENTS

[01] GREEK FM CYPRUS ISSUE TURKEY

[01] GREEK FM CYPRUS ISSUE TURKEY

Bakoyannis said that Turkey, which maintains occupation troops in Cyprus since 1974, determines the extend of flexibility of the Turkish Cypriot side at the negotiations, which began September last year, under UN auspices, with the aim to reach a solution of the Cyprus problem.

She noted that in December, Turkeys compliance with the Ankara Protocol and its obligation to normalize its relations with the Republic of Cyprus would be assessed.

Turkey must realize that there will be no special treatment, the Greek Foreign Minister underlined.

Bakoyannis said that agreements are there to be honoured, otherwise there are consequences, adding there is no Europe a la carte for anyone.

Furthermore, she pointed out that the fulfillment of obligations and the practical demonstration of European behavior is the only way, which could bring Turkey to Europe.

Regarding the ongoing negotiations for a solution of the Cyprus problem, which began a year ago in Nicosia under UN auspices, she said they are now entering a crucial phase and that despite difficulties and obstacles they move forward.

The negotiation process, she pointed out, is difficult, it faces obstacles, but there are prerequisites for a solution.

The Greek FM reiterated that the solution, a bicommunal, bizonal federation, must be just, viable and functional, should not include outmoded guarantee systems, should be based on the UNSC decisions, should respect the EU principles and values as well as the EU acquis communautaire.

She added that the Cypriot President and the Republic of Cyprus will need the support and help of Greece, help, which Greece and the Greek Foreign Ministry will offer generously, ``so that we can jointly achieve the best possible result for the benefit of the Cypriot people and the reunification of the island``.

Cypriot President Demetris Christrofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat began September 3, 2008 direct negotiations under UN auspices with a view to reach a solution of the political problem in Cyprus, which has been divided by Turkish troops since the Turkish invasion of 1974.

The second round of talks will begin 3rd of September 2009.

The Republic of Cyprus is a full member of the EU since May 2004.

Cyprus News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article