AKEL meets Fule: Confidence building measures no substitute for a solution of the Cyprus Problem
AKEL C.C. Press Office, 8th April 2014, Nicosia
A delegation of AKEL, consisting of the members of the Political Bureau of the Party Christos Alekou and Stefanos Stefanou, had a meeting this morning with EU Commissioner for Enlargement Stefan Fule.
They discussed developments surrounding the Cyprus problem, the role of the EU in the efforts to reach a solution and Confidence Building Measures.
With regards the negotiations on the Cyprus problem the delegation of AKEL noted that, without giving a free hand to the President of the Republic, it is supporting the negotiating process, which is the only possible path that can lead to an overall solution.
The delegation reiterated AKEL’s stated position that the negotiations must continue from the point there were discontinued by the Turkish Cypriot side in 2012 and that the significant convergences achieved between Christofias-Talat should be safeguarded.
With regards the EU, the delegation of AKEL stressed that it has and should play a role in the efforts to solve the Cyprus problem. The EU must participate in the process and check the compatibility of the proposals submitted at the negotiating table with the EU acquis communautaire, its principles and values. Of course, the EU must utilize Turkey’s accession process to exert influence and pressure on the occupying power so that it consents to a solution based on the relevant UN resolutions, the High Level Agreements of 1977 and 1979, the principles of International and European Law.
Concerning the Confidence Building Measures the delegation of AKEL stressed that these are not a substitute for a solution, but they can play a role in creating the proper climate and strengthening the momentum for a solution. More specifically, the delegation of AKEL discussed the issue of Famagusta, which can give a strong impetus to the efforts to reach a solution.
The delegation of AKEL reiterated the Party’s position that the solution of the Cyprus solution is crucial for the present and future of this country. AKEL supports a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality as set out by the UN for a united state with a single sovereignty, a single citizenship and a single international personality; a solution that will put an end the occupation and reunite Cyprus and its people, Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots.
Stefan Fule characterised the meeting as very interesting and thanked the delegation of AKEL for the constructive positions of the Party on the Cyprus problem.
