The Formula
Enough about blame! Those who suggest that the Cypriot Government does not show any enthusiasm to move forward for a solution to the Cyprus situation do not understand what is at stake.
The Cypriots should be the masters of their own destiny. The point to be addressed is not the 'need for a solution' but rather the need for a lasting solution. It happened in the past when this small newly independent country was forced by its former colonial master to compromise its sovereign rights. It perpetuated into an internal discord that saw Greek and Turkish Cypriots who had lived side by side in peace for hundreds of years engaged in acts of hostility toward each other.
It should not happen again. Engaging in talks and searching for a viable solution is an encouraging sign by itself. But neither the UN nor any other body can force a solution that may be short lived. Just because others want a 'solution', that is just not the way to handle international disputes and is analogous to forcing an expectant mother into a premature labour.
The 'asphyxiating time' may fit those who are talking from a position of having nothing to lose. But for the Cypriots themselves who would have to deal through the intricacies of political and economic relations on a daily basis is a very serious matter. The need for a just and viable solution is not based on 'asphyxiation' but rather on realistic proposals that would safeguard fundamental civil rights for everyone.
Those who claim to be dispassionate observers should demonstrate that by example. Instead of being so critical as to claim that they can 'see' what is right for Cyprus whereas others do not, they can assist by abstaining from using fear tactics and suggesting coercive measures.
Are you indoctrinated if you care about the future of your children and grandchildren in this land that your forefathers had cultivated with blood and sweat? Are you indoctrinated if you are concerned and dismayed when your cultural treasures are being stolen and sold in the black market? Are you indoctrinated if you want to safeguard fundamental civil rights and liberties? Are you indoctrinated if you say no to bullying and arm twisting? Are you indoctrinated if you want to avoid the mistakes of the past?
Someone has suggested that "what is needed is an 'asphyxiating' time frame or "some powerful intervention combined with real arm twisting by outside parties." I am not surprised that this arrogance is allowed to exist as I am not surprised that the same arrogance is what has caused civil discord in the Arab World. Those who assume that others have the power to impose their will on the Cypriot people should think long and hard as history has shown that these tactics do not work.
Here is a simple formula for a good start:
1. Turkey agrees to withdraw all its army from Cyprus;
2. Cyprus supports Turkey on joining the European Union;
3. Turkey and Cyprus establish free movement of goods and peoples and Turkey opens its ports and airports to Cyprus and other European Union members;
4. The so called treaty of guarantee is abolished because is anachronistic and contradicts the sovereignty of nations; neither Greece nor Turkey should have a say in the affairs of Cyprus;
5. All check points separating the two sides are removed, opening the free movement of peoples and goods throughout the island;
6. A civilian task force is established to formulate the new constitution based on fundamental civil rights and liberties;
7. Timelines are established for a gradual integration of the two economies between the north and the south;
8. Establish a system of restitution and compensation based on established guidelines and neutral valuations;
9. Arbitrators are hired to settle disputes involving land claims and expropriation;
10. All citizens to have the freedom of movement and settlement everywhere on the island;
11. A strong federal system is establish to oversee the most important aspects of governance such as immigration, the military, foreign affairs, monetary and fiscal policy, the treasury, etc.;
12. Three official languages are established: Greek, Turkish and English;
13. All justice institutions, including courts are integrated to handle disputes; a federal court to handle federal issues and provincial courts to handle local (provincial issues);
14. A law reform commission is establish to oversee the implementation of legal reforms;
15. A common currency is implemented;
16. All ports and airports are opened under federal jurisdiction;
17. A free trade agreement is signed between Cyprus and Turkey to precede Turkey`s joining the European Union;
18. Turkey provides substantial financial assistance and compensation to help integrate the two economies of the island so that Cyprus is not overburdened with the initial costs of implementing the chances that would be taking place.
http://www.cyprussolution.info/
by Viewpoint » Mon Jul 11, 2011 6:36 pm 
