On the reexamination of the lifting of the US arms embargo

Statement by AKEL C.C. Spokesperson Stefanos Stefanou

AKEL C.C. Press Office, 11 April 2019, Nicosia

The imposition of an embargo in international relations in effect constitutes a punitive measure directed against states accused of committing serious violations of international law. Hence, the punitive sanctions that were imposed over the years on the Republic of Cyprus by the US are a great injustice. No violation whatsoever of international law can be attributed on us, and consequently for that reason the issue is rightly being re-examined.

Having said that, we want to recall the longstanding position of AKEL and the National Council that the Cyprus problem is a political problem which must be resolved through diplomacy and negotiations. The crucially significant position of the Greek Cypriot side, as it is outlined in the unanimous decisions adopted by the National Council and in numerous resolutions of the UN Security Council, is the demilitarization of the Republic of Cyprus.

The possibility of access to arms purchases must not divert us from the goal of demilitarization, nor must it lead to exaggerations. Under no circumstances can the Republic of Cyprus compete with Turkey’s military might, within or outside of any military formations where Ankara is playing a leading role.