Stefanou and Tsipras shared common concerns at their meeting

21 October 2022, AKEL C.C. Press Office, Nicosia

The necessity of breaking the deadlock and addressing Turkey’s provocative and dangerous stance were stressed during a meeting today in Athens, on the sidelines of the European Forum organised by the Party of the European Left, between the General Secretary of AKEL and SYRIZA President Alexis Tsipras. During the meeting issues concerning Cyprus and Greece, such as the Cyprus problem, Greek-Turkish relations and developments in the region, were discussed. Discussing the critical juncture the Cyprus problem is going through and the prolonged stalemate, the unanimous position was that the solution of the Cyprus problem within the framework of the UN resolutions can and must be set as a priority for both countries. Both noted in particular that the solution of the Cyprus problem, apart from vindicating the Cypriot people and its struggles, can contribute as a factor of peace and stability for the peoples of the region.

Regarding Turkey’s provocations which violate the sovereign rights of the Republic of Cyprus, it was noted that the EU cannot limit itself to adopting negligible sanctions of minor importance by pursuing a double standards policy.

Particular reference was made to the developments as determined by the ongoing war in Ukraine and the consequences it creates for the peoples of Europe and especially to the energy crisis which contributes to the increasing price hikes and puts pressure on the popular strata. It was stressed that ‘it is the duty and responsibility of governments to take effective measures to curb poverty and relieve society’.

There was also a broad convergence of views in a friendly and constructive atmosphere of discussion on the need to find solutions to the problems faced by the peoples through solidarity and respect for international law.

“These conditions make it imperative for the left to embrace society even more by putting forward solutions to the serious problems of survival caused by capitalism and neoliberal policies,” it was stressed.

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