The two leaders must assume their historic responsibilities

AKEL C.C. Press Office, 3 October 2019, Nicosia

Turkey’s new actions and threats in relation to Cyprus’ energy program are part of Ankara’s overall strategy to challenge the sovereign rights of the Republic of Cyprus, attempt to impede their exercise and to carry out new illegal fait accompli. The Republic of Cyprus has both the right and the obligation to defend its sovereign rights and protect them politically and diplomatically. At the same time, we note that we will be constantly be confronted with such actions and provocations on the part of Turkey so long as the Cyprus problem remains unresolved.

It is for this reason that we are anxiously monitoring developments and the situation surrounding the Cyprus problem. Instead of spending their time managing their communication image and engaging in pointless discussions, the two leaders must focus on moving things forward in a constructive way.

AKEL reiterates once again that the conclusion on the Terms of Reference shouldn’t have been such a difficult and complicated affair, provided that both leaders declare and mean what they say about being bound by the 2014 Joint Declaration, the agreed convergences and the Guterres Framework.

The two leaders are called upon to assume their historic responsibilities. A possible failure to resume substantive negotiations on the agreed basis and framework will accelerate dramatic and dangerous developments that will be to the detriment of both Greek Cypriots and the Turkish Cypriots.

The security and prosperity of Cyprus and its people lies in a solution of the Cyprus problem based on principles that will put an end to the Turkish occupation and division. The liberation and reunification of Cyprus is only possible on the basis of a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality as outlined in UN resolutions.