The second phase of negotiations for a Cyprus settlement, which begins on May 6, is the most substantive and the intentions of each side will become apparent, Government Spokesman Nicos Christodoulides said in an interview with London Greek Radio (LGR), noting that the Turkish side`s actions are not helfpul.

He also said that there could be cooperation with Turkey in the field of natural gas after a solution of the Cyprus problem but not before.
Asked about remarks by Turkish Cypriot leader Dervis Eroglu, Christodoulides said Eroglu was contradicting himself and his remarks were not contributing to the necessary climate now that negotiations are in progress.
He added that during the second phase of the negotiations the prospects for a settlement and any convergences will become apparent so that it would become clear if there could be any optimism for a positive result.
Christodoulides also said that the so-called immovable property commission in the Turkish occupied areas was not accepting applications from Turkish Cypriots regarding their properties in the government-controlled areas of the Republic, which complicated matters even more. This, the Spokesman said, was a negative development and would be raised at the negotiating table.
He furthermore assured that the Greek Cypriot side was focused on a solution and that those watching the talks closely should help create the conditions that would allow for a positive result.
Christodoulides said the Greek Cypriot side was neither optimistic nor pessimistic, noting that each side would be judged at the negotiating table.
Asked about the insistence of US Ambassador to Cyprus John Koenig for cooperation with Turkey in the field of natural gas, Christodoulides said Koenig was doing his duty and promoting the interests of his country.
The Spokesman said cooperation would be possible after a solution of the Cyprus problem but not prior to one.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Talks are currently being held with an aim to reunify the island.
Deposits of natural gas have been discovered in the exclusive economic zone of the Republic of Cyprus and explorations are continuing.