Let’s make 2017 the year of the reunification of our Cyprus
Article by Neoklis Sylikiotis, AKEL Political Bureau member and MEP
9TH January 2017
We are perhaps at the most critical juncture of the Cyprus problem, which can lead to a positive outcome. But the path to achieving a solution still has many difficulties and challenges. That is the reason why adherence to the positions of principle on the Cyprus problem, determination and a sincere desire by all of us is demanded. We need to act collectively and constructively. The necessary mutual respect should prevail between us and not the distortion of reality.
AKEL will continue to struggle with all its strength so that 2017 will be the year when the solution of the Cyprus problem will be achieved; a solution that will bring the liberation of our country and the reunification of the people of Cyprus within the framework of a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality, as described in the relevant UN resolutions; a solution that will provide for one state with a single sovereignty, a single citizenship, a single international personality and that will safeguard the human rights and basic freedoms of our people.
Undoubtedly mistakes have been committed in the handling of the Cyprus problem by President Anastasiades. AKEL at the same time also has its own worries and concerns with regards specific issues. However, in exercising our criticism, we always act constructively and remain committed to our objective. AKEL operates based on principles, is at the forefront of the efforts and with consistency continues to support the efforts underway to rid ourselves of the occupation and reunite our country.
Thanks to the workable and integrative Christofias-Talat convergences, which at long last were utilized by President Anastasiades and the Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci, 2016 has seen significant progress recorded on the issues relating to the internal aspects of the Cyprus problem. It has been safeguarded that there will be a single sovereignty, a single international personality and a single citizenship. Furthermore, a federal state with a strong central government, together with the basic freedoms and the population ratio of 1: 4 have also been safeguarded.
The progress subsequently registered in Mont Peleran on two of the three points of the territorial issue, that is the issues related to area and coastline, significantly determined the development that followed. However, several outstanding significant chapters still remain and it is imperative that the President of the Republic operates collectively so that we achieve the desired result.
Today everyone’s attention and hopes are focused on Geneva. However Geneva will not be the end of the road. Whatever happens in Geneva, there will certainly be a continuation. It is therefore important that the President of the Republic and his staff find ways so that the procedural disagreements are overcome in a way that safeguards our basic principles, and for the conference to be able to be concluded successfully so that we can arrive within range of agreement. Otherwise there is a risk of the effort collapsing and being trapped in a stalemate.
In Geneva Turkey’s verbal declarations will be determined by the consistency of its actions. It must demonstrate concretely its will for a solution. Turkey must be positive and demonstrate a constructive attitude in order for progress to be recorded on security issues. AKEL’s position on these issues is clear. We do not accept the presence of troops and guarantees. We want a country without armies and guardians, without any barbed wires of division. We demand a reunified homeland, where peace and prosperity of the people will prevail.
On 10th January, when the negotiations in Geneva will be in progress, another mass meeting will be organized in favour of a solution and reunification. Together once again, Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots, Maronites, Armenians and Latins will send, united, the message that we support the negotiation procedure and demand that peace prevails in a reunited Cyprus to the benefit of the Cypriot people. Now is the time to intensify our struggle. We therefore remain committed to the solution of the Cyprus problem and to the peaceful coexistence with our fellow Turkish Cypriot compatriots in a reunited island.
