We cannot expect Erdogan’s visit will influence in a fundamental way developments on the Cyprus problem
Statement by Yiorgos Loucaides, AKEL Political Bureau member and AKEL-Left-New Forces Parliamentary Representative
AKEL C.C. Press Office, 7th December 2017, Nicosia
The Turkish President’s long-awaited visit to Athens today, unfortunately does not start with the best of omens. Mr. Erdogan’s statements before he even arrived in the Greek capital that the Treaty of Lausanne should be “updated” do not help in any way whatsoever towards the cultivation of a good climate between the two neighbouring countries.
As far as the Cyprus problem is concerned, we believe that these statements further burden the already grave atmosphere that has been created after the collapse of the Conference in Crans Montana. With this given situation in mind, we cannot expect that Erdogan’s visit will influence in a fundamental way developments on the Cyprus problem.
The situation that has evolved highlights the need for correct and effective handlings on our part that will either lead to a solution to the Cyprus problem or to Turkey being exposed. Unfortunately neither of the two was achieved in Crans Montana, despite the strong international support for our position on the issue of “Security-Guarantees”. With his election to the presidency, Stavros Malas will make use of every possible opportunity to give a perspective to the solution of the Cyprus problem.
