AKEL replies to Movement of Ecologists and “Solidarity” Movement

Statement by Stefanos Stefanou, AKEL C.C. Spokesperson

AKEL C.C. Press Office, 24 April 2018, Nicosia

We will not get into the logic of indulging in characterizations, aphorisms and the distortion of positions in which the Movement of Ecologists and the “Solidarity” Movement have yet again resorted to against AKEL

It is however a provocation that those forces and circles who in the year 2018 are proclaiming that they will sacrifice themselves for the sake of the union of Cyprus with Greece, are accusing AKEL of cultivating illusions.

It is a provocation that those forces and circles accusing AKEL of being in line with Turkey who with their positions on the Cyprus problem, all they do is to facilitate Turkey’s policy, which is attempting to bury the solution of bizonal, bicommunal federation and promote confederation.

Let’s look at the substance of the issue:

The procedure to which AKEL and its General Secretary referred to is the one that the UN Secretary-General supports for the resumption of negotiations.

With regard to the Natural Gas and pipeline issue, AKEL’s position is also quite clear. Without a solution of the Cyprus problem, Turkey cannot expect any cooperation with Cyprus for the utilization of the natural gas. On the other hand, the solution of the Cyprus problem will give the Republic of Cyprus more opportunities, prospects and options for the exploitation of natural gas. The pipeline via Turkey can be one of these options that we can discuss only after the solution of the Cyprus problem.

AKEL, behind the problems, is always trying to find solutions that serve the well-intentioned interests of the country and the people. The only thing certain forces and circles do is to cultivate phobias and engage in rampant scaremongering. By pursuing these approaches, however, we will be left with the Turkish occupation, the presence of thousands of occupying troops and settlers, and partition.