Proposals that reintroduce the issue of direct trade with the Turkish occupied areas of Cyprus on a trial basis are unacceptable, stated here Sunday Deputy Government Spokesman Victoras Papadopoulos.

In a written statement Papadopoulos said that “regarding reports that circles within the EU are suggesting to bring back the issue of direct trade with the occupied north on a trial basis, the government would like to clarify that under no circumstances it will accept such proposals or suggestions”.

He added that President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades will have the opportunity in Brussels on Thursday morning to discuss with Enlargement Commissioner Stephan Fule any actions or suggestions concerning the issue.

Furthermore, he said the President will also “clarify the government’s position that such proposals, if they exist, can only cause problems, especially after the resumption of the talks for a solution to the Cyprus issue and therefore they will not be accepted”.

Cyprus was divided in 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Previous UN-led efforts to reunify the island have failed.

Cyprus talks resumed, under UN auspices, in February, following an agreement on a joint declaration by the leaders of the island’s two communities, Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades and Turkish Cypriot leader Dervis Eroglu.