On developments in the occupied areas and their possible impact on the Cyprus problem
Statement of Stefanos Stefanou, AKEL Political Bureau member
AKEL C.C. Press Office, 16th April 2016, Nicosia
Stefanos Stefanou, member of the Political Bureau of the C.C. of AKEL, replying to a question on developments in the occupied areas and their possible impact on the Cyprus problem, pointed out the following:
“The course of events will show what the impact will be. Knowing what the positions of the parties that will form the so-called “government” in the occupied areas are on the Cyprus problem, of course there is concern about how and whether the efforts to resolve the Cyprus problem will be affected. For sure the Cyprus problem is discussed between the leaders of the two communities. On the part of the Turkish Cypriot side it is Mr. Akinci and not the so-called “government who is negotiating.”
On the other hand, we should note that the momentum and point in time for a solution to the Cyprus problem, due to objective reasons, continues to exist. Therefore, in our view, we must remain committed to the effort to solve the Cyprus problem. We should continue to be present at the negotiating table, consistent to positions of principles and demonstrate the necessary realism in an effort to achieve progress on the issues under discussion. Whether we will move forward or not, whether there will eventually be additional problems or not, this will be made clear at the negotiating table.
At present, rather than discussing whether and how the negotiations will be adversely affected, it would be better to continue the effort to achieve a solution and in the course of time handle matters depending on developments.”
