AKEL has repeatedly said that the critical nature of the period the Cyprus problem is going through demands steadfastness with regards the agreed framework for a solution of bi-communal, bi-zonal Federation, with political equality as defined by the UN. A few hours before the leaders of the two communities are due to meet, AKEL expresses the hope that the obstacles will be overcome and that the terms of reference will be agreed thus paving the way for meaningful negotiations.

AKEL does not in the slightest ignore the difficulties that exist about which we have been warning about for two and a half years. No one can predict the outcome of the meeting in Berlin. However, Turkey’s illegal actions and often unacceptable and provocative statements should not lead us to a passive attitude, given that this – inevitably – serves Turkish plans. Nor can time be allowed to pass by aimlessly until the April ‘vote’ in the Turkish Cypriot community, as there is a danger that we will find ourselves – the Greek Cypriot community – up against a Turkish Cypriot leader who rejects the idea of ​​peaceful coexistence and who will work to make partition permanent and for a two-state solution.

In view of the Berlin meeting, AKEL expresses its readiness to support the effort for a solution based principles that will liberate the country and reunite our people.