Any forced solution to the Cyprus problem through an “express process”, is unacceptable, Defence Minister Photis Photiou said here today. He added that the priority for the time being is to exit the financial crisis, the soonest possible.
Speaking during a memorial service, in the Kokkinotrimithia Concentration Camp, near the capital, Nicosia, Photiou said that efforts to resume the process for a Cyprus solution must take place in “due time”.
As he pointed out, this can happen after Cyprus is relieved from the burden of the financial crisis.
He went on to say that the President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades and the government remain committed in working with a view to lift the status quo created by the 1974 Turkish invasion and occupation of the island.
Our goal is a viable and functioning Cyprus solution, in the framework of a bizonal, bicommunal federation, with political equality, that will guarantee a state with a single sovereignty, citizenship and international personality, the Minister said.
Photiou further noted that the basis of negotiations needs to be agreed before any new process begins, taking fully into account the fundamental principles for a Cyprus solution, as outlined in UN Security Council resolutions.
He also said that confidence building measures by Turkey would have a positive impact, noting that such a measure would be the return of the fenced town of Famagusta to its legitimate inhabitants.
Photiou also said that certain Greek Cypriot proposals to the other side are in the process of being withdrawn, as they are deemed unacceptable by the majority of the people and the political leadership.
He finally called for unity in order to overcome financial hardships.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and occupied its northern third.
The Republic of Cyprus gained its independence in 1960. The Kokkinotrimithia Concentration Camp was a place where Greek Cypriot strugglers were enclosed without trial during Cyprus liberation struggle of 1955-59 against the British rule.
