We must focus and intensify the efforts to resume negotiations
Statement by AKEL C.C. Spokesperson Stefanos Stefanou on the Famagusta issue and Cavusoglu’s statements
AKEL C.C. Press Office, 13th September 2019, Nicosia
AKEL denounces in the strongest possible terms the new provocative statements made by the Turkish Foreign Minister M. Cavusoglu on Famagusta. The occupying power’s actions set in motion for the colonization of the enclosed city of Famagusta represents a blatant provocation against Cyprus and its people, a violation of international law and the Resolutions of the UN. It also directly undermines the efforts for a resumption of substantive negotiations on the Cyprus problem. The implementation of what Turkey and the illegal regime (in the occupied areas) is threatening and planning will also undermine the framework for a solution to the Cyprus problem.
To prevent new fait accompli, actions need to be taken at every level:
- The government should promote specific ways of reacting to Turkey’s efforts to create new serious fait accompli in relation to Famagusta.
- Initiatives undertaken by the Municipality of Famagusta on many levels must be supported.
- We should strengthen the joint action with those Turkish Cypriots who have been working for years for the implementation of the UN Resolutions on Famagusta and are reacting to Turkey’s neo-colonial policy.
- Most importantly, we should focus and intensify our efforts for a resumption of the negotiations. It is only through the solution of the Cyprus problem that the occupation will be terminated and our homeland and people will be reunited which can ensure lasting peace and security. Turkey’s provocative, illegal and dangerous behaviour is a testament to the dangers that exist and are growing as a result of the perpetuation of the status quo, the prolonged stalemate and the fact that the occupying power has been relieved of any responsibilities.