The British High Commissioner in Cyprus Peter Millet has highlighted the need for underlining the advantages of reunification in Cyprus rather than focusing on the costs of a political settlement.
“This is not a zero-some game, but a win-win option” he said.
Mr Millet’s words came during a social reception organized by the British High Commission for Turkish Cypriots inNicosia (Lefkoşa) last night.
President Mehmet Ali Talat, Prime Minister Ferdi Sabit Soyer, ministers, mayors, some ambassadors, representatives from political parties and civil society organizations were among the many guests attending the British High Commission’s annual garden party.
Some Turkish Cypriot and English products were also displayed during the reception during which the guests also enjoyed a good taste of music performed by an orchestra.
Delivering a speech at the reception, the British High Commissioner Peter Millet stressed the importance of establishing an indivisible federal partnership on the island, based on two constituent states having political equality.
Referring to his speech last year, Mr Millet reminded that he was speaking of his disappointment over the lack of progress in the solution process and was still calling on people not to give up hope.
“However, this year, I am very happy to see the positive developments following the 21st March Agreement signed between the two leaders” he said.
Welcoming the heavy efforts of two leaders towards the solution of the Cyprus problem, the British High Commissioner referred to the opening of the Lokmaci gate for crossings and the decision of both sides to simultaneously cancel military exercises, and said, few in the past would imagine that these would be possible today.
Stating that some media is focusing on statements made about the ‘costs’ of a solution, Mr Millet said he prefers to highlight the benefits of unification as this will be a strong tool in encouraging both sides for a solution further.
Bearing in mind the advantages Turkish Cypriots will gain with the reunification of Cyprus, Millet said Turkish Cypriots will gain their rightful position within the EU with equal rights with Greek Cypriots; have a good opportunity of cultural exchange with other countries and will have the chance to trade freely with other EU countries.
EU’s structural funds will also be provided and isolations will be removed, Millet added.
Mr Millet finalized his speech by saying “Now there is the best opportunity for a settlement. Please don’t miss it, seize it!”