Cyprus News Agency: News in English, 10-06-17

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

CONTENTS

[01] CHRISTOFIAS - DIRECT TRADE REGULATION - DEADLINES

[01] CHRISTOFIAS - DIRECT TRADE REGULATION - DEADLINES

President Christofias, who was speaking during a press conference on the sidelines of the European Council, was commenting on reports with regard to the possible freezing of efforts to promote an EU regulation for direct trade of the EU with the Turkish Cypriots in the occupied part of Cyprus, while negotiations aiming to solve the Cyprus problem are still going on.

He underlined that there is no possibility that we will again accept the imposition of any strict deadlines and arbitration, by whoever might try to impose something like this. This must be clear, President Christofias said.

The President noted that the Republic of Cyprus believes that the direct trade regulation must be withdrawn or at least freeze. He added that in case anyone insists on it, then the issue must be referred to a European Parliament Committee which will be competent to look into it.

He also said that, in view of his meetings with European officials, he has sent letters regarding the regulation and the position of the Greek Cypriot side on this issue and its proposal for trade with the Turkish Cypriots, under the condition of the opening of the fenced-off town of Famagusta, its return under UN jurisdiction, the preparation for the return of its inhabitants and the opening of the Famagusta port, under EU supervision and auspices, so that Turkish Cypriots may conduct trade from there.

``This proposal is our response to the insistence of Turkey and of some sides within the European Parliament to bring forward a regulation that should under normal conditions not only be frozen but nullified,`` he added.

Cyprus, which joined the EU in 2004, has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third.

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