The National Council, top advisory body to the President of the Republic on the handling of the Cyprus problem, has unanimously and unreservedly condemned the “unacceptable and provocative” statements by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayiip Erdogan during his recent illegal visit to Cyprus Turkish occupied areas.

In a joint statement issued after its meeting on Friday, read out by Government Spokesman Stephanos Stephanou, the National Council noted that “the National Council unanimously considers that these statements jeopardize the ongoing bicommunal dialogue which is now entering a phase of intensive negotiations.”

The statement said that during its meeting the National Council continued its discussion on the results of the meeting in Geneva on July 7, between UN Secretary General Ban Ki moon, Cyprus President Demetris Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Dervis Eroglu.

The Council also discussed statements made by Erdogan during his illegal visit to Cyprus Turkish occupied areas, noting that Erdogan’s statements and behaviour on the Cyprus issues have already been denounced by President of the Republic to the UN Secretary General, the five Permanent Members of the Security Council and the EU.

Stephanou also said that the House of Representatives and political parties have also made representations towards various directions.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and occupied 37% of its territory.