President Christofias: we cannot accept arbitration in the talks for a settlement
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“We would like to achieve a settlement of the Cyprus problem even before the end of this year. This, however, is directly associated with the content of the talks and the positions submitted by each side. If these positions are reasonable and compromising, fall within the framework of a bizonal, bicommunal federation and serve the interests of the Cyprus people, Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, then and only then we will have convergence. On the other hand, positions which are outside the agreed solution framework and are based on the logic of numerical equality rather than political equality, as the international Organisation stipulates, do not lead anywhere. I am convinced that our side is justified in claiming that the positions we are putting forward at the talks serve the goal of a solution and facilitate the success of the talks.” The President of the Republic Mr Demetris Christofias made the aforementioned statements yesterday in Limassol speaking at a commemoration event to denounce the 1974 coup and Turkish invasion.
Referring to the international community’s stance on the Cyprus problem, President Christofias called on her to exercise influence on Ankara so that the latter would contribute to the resolution of the Cyprus problem. He further noted: “I would like to clarify from this stand that we cannot accept arbitration, overt or covert. The bitter experience of 2004 should have made all sides, both within and outside Cyprus, wiser. We do not want to see a repeat of 2004. We want to reach a solution of the Cyprus problem; a mutually accepted solution that serves only the interests of Cypriots.”
The President added: “I take this opportunity to send a message to our Turkish Cypriot compatriots and I wish to reassure them that we can and should live peacefully in a reunited Cyprus. Our choices today will determine whether this place will have a future or if it will remain hostage to a traumatic past presaging a similar perspective. Let’s be aware of our responsibilities towards those who left with the pain of division. Let’s reflect on our responsibilities towards our children, grandchildren and the future generations”.