Greece: Solution should be Cypriot and European in Cyprus

Negotiations under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General that are taking place should lead, without deadlines or arbitration, to a solution without occupation troops, one that is viable, functional and fair and based on UN Security Council decisions and the implementation of the acquis communautaire, the Greek Foreign Ministry said on Monday.

In a statement, the ministry said that a solution should be both Cypriot and European, because the most effective guarantor for the safety of the people of Cyprus is the implementation of the European principles over the territory of the Republic of Cyprus as a whole.

The statement said that on the occasion of Monday’s “dark anniversary of the declaration of the illegal regime in the areas occupied by the Turkish army in Cyprus, (the anniversary) has one and single significance for the international community: it reminds that an independent UN and EU member state continues to be under military occupation, that an unacceptable, illegal and divisive situation continues to exist”.

“Despite the adversities, the leadership of the Republic of Cyprus is making continued efforts for a reunited, independent and sovereign state, in which Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots will be able to enjoy the fruits of co-existence, in an environment of security, freedom and welfare, within the framework of the European family,” it added.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded and occupied its northern third territory. Cyprus UN-led talks are underway between the leaders of the two communities of Cyprus, President Demetris Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Dervis Eroglu.

Turkey does not recognise the Republic of Cyprus. On 15 November 1983, the Turkish Cypriots declared a UDI, which the UN has described as “legally invalid”. Only Turkey recognises the self-styled regime in northern Turkish occupied Cyprus.