Cyprus-Forum.com

[Omer Seyhan]

It is dishonest to reject the proposal for Varosha

Under the above headline the Turkish Cypriot daily Star Kibris newspaper (11.08.10) refers to a written statement by BKP Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Emin Tasker, which argues that acceptance of the proposal for the return of Varosha and the opening of the Famagusta port under EU supervision, would not only have positive effects on the negotiations, but it would also be beneficial for both communities.
According to Tasker: Return of Varosha to the legal owners and its restoration under UN supervision, could be a great contribution in the search for a solution and in the development of confidence between the communities, while opening of the Famagusta port under EU supervision could enhance development of our trade and tourism.

Tasker said that an early solution is not Turkey's priority and argued that Turkey does not want to experience a crisis with the EU due to the Ankara Agreement, and that its purpose is to get through December without any mishaps.

Also according to Tasker the proposal of the Turkish Cypriot side based on two separate states eliminates hopes for an early solution.