AKEL and PTK decide to set up working groups on Cyprus issue

Greek Cypriot party of AKEL and the Turkish Republican Party (PTK) decided on Wednesday to set up working groups for intensive discussion on all aspects of the Cyprus issue.

The decision was taken during a meeting held here today between the leaders of the two parties, namely AKEL`s General Secretary Andros Kyprianou and PTK`s General Secretary Kutlai Erk.

Both leaders made it clear that there would not be any shadow talks and that the leaders of the two communities in Cyprus and the public would be kept informed about the work of the working groups.

In statements following the meeting, Kyprianou said that the discussion during the meeting was very constructive, adding that the discussion focused on the recent developments in the Cyprus problem and the next steps forward.

He also expressed the view that in order for Cyprus to have a future and prospect and to create the conditions that will help us overcome the critical economic difficulties faced by the Cyprus, it is necessary to reunite our country in the framework of a proper solution.

Kyprianou also said that the common position that the so far discussions in Cyprus have not produced the expected results was confirmed at the meeting and stressed that the two parties historically supports the efforts towards resolving the Cyprus problem.

Kutlai Erk said that his party continues to make great and intensive effort to solve the problem, adding that “all ethnic groups that live in Cyprus are obliged to live together in peace “.

Cyprus, an EU member since 2004, has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. UN backed talks are underway with the aim to reunite the island under a federal roof.

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