Brussels, 27/09/2013 (Agence Europe) - During his first speech at the United Nations General Assembly on 26 September, Cyprus' President Nicos Anastasiades called on the European Union to take a greater role in the negotiations on the reunification of Cyprus. The negotiations are being conducted under the auspices of the United Nations.
“The settlement must embody our capacity as an EU member state and fully enshrine its values and principles, through enhancing the role of the EU in the negotiating process”, he said. “Such a role by the EU would merely supplement and complement the UN Good Offices Mission, in order to guarantee not only our effective and efficient participation in the EU through the proper implementation of the acquis communautaire, but also the restoration of fundamental freedoms and human rights of all Cypriots”, he added.
Welcoming Turkey's decision to respond affirmatively to his proposal of holding meetings with the negotiator of the Greek Cypriot community, Andreas Mavroyannis, Anastasiades said he hoped and expected “that this positive response will be followed up through practical and substantial steps and the adoption of a constructive attitude, guided by good faith which will contribute effectively towards reaching a settlement”. He also called on Turkey and “our Turkish Cypriot compatriots” to demonstrate the “same determination” as him and the same commitment to become partners in the effort for reunification. The Greek Cypriot community's rejection of the Annan Plan in 2004 “does not absolve Turkey from its obligations and responsibilities concerning the efforts to find a just solution”, he added.
Anastasiades therefore called for a quick resumption of negotiations although he said that this should not mean that they are rushed. He stated that the current status quo is unacceptable and that a global settlement is not only desirable but should no longer be delayed. In order to avoid a new frustrating negotiating process “the time for the start of the negotiations is not as important as for them to be conducted in a comprehensive manner, with clear substance, aims and targets”. In Anastasiades' view, it should be “clearly established” before the start of the negotiating process that “the basis and the solution to be reached will adhere to the relevant UN resolutions (…) and the evolving transformation of the Republic of Cyprus in a bi-zonal, bi-communal federal state, with a single international personality, single sovereignty and single citizenship”. Anastasiades announced that he had presented proposals that incorporate the return of the ghost town of Famagusta to its legitimate inhabitants.
The negotiations could resume in October. (CG/transl.fl)