AKEL on the issue of the opening of the Deryneia crossing point

Statement by Eleni Mavrou, AKEL Political Bureau member

AKEL C.C Press Office, 29 September 2018, Nicosia

In the light of reports that the opening of the Deryneia checkpoint is imminent in the coming days, the view that the relevant agreement must be revised due to the “political and economic repercussions” that will arise is being put forth by certain political forces.

Despite the fact that the issue has from time to time been brought back, we have not heard a clear position on the issue being expressed by the government.

However, it is not only on the issue of check-points that the government does not clarify its position, but also on substantive issues.

For example, in reply to AKEL’s criticism that the President has once again avoided naming bizonal, bicommunal federation as the agreed basis of the solution of the Cyprus problem, the reply was that this is covered by the President’s reference to UN resolutions. However, in the statements issued by other parties that welcome the absence of any reference (to bizonal, bicommunal federation), as an indication of the government’s reflection for a change of the basis of the solution, there was no answer whatsoever (on the part of the government).

It is understandable to everyone that the opening of any checkpoint cannot represent the solution to the Cyprus problem. As AKEL, however, we consistently support the view that any breach in the dividing line serves the effort for rapprochement and cooperation between the two communities and helps towards improving the conditions for finding an overall solution to the problem.

It is the Turkish occupation that is hindering free movement in our country and the Republic of Cyprus must not take actions that negates this reality.