The Greek Cypriot side is working to create the conditions for the resumption of direct negotiations aimed at a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus issue, on the basis of the agreed United Nations framework, the accumulated negotiating acquis, and the principles, values and legal order of the European Union, Deputy Government Spokesperson Yiannis Antoniou said on Thursday evening.
Antoniou, representing Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides at an anti-occupation rally organised by the Latsia-Geri Municipality, conveyed to those present the President's assurance that resolving the Cyprus issue remains the highest priority for both himself and his government.
In his address, Antoniou said the recent appointment of European Commission Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto as the EU Special Representative for Cyprus demonstrates the European Union's increased interest, which, he said, the government is counting on “both with regard to progress towards the resumption of negotiations and, more specifically, the incorporation of the EU acquis into the content of a settlement.”
“We support the initiative for the resumption of talks, which was launched following our own persistent efforts. We are investing in the political will of the United Nations Secretary-General, the upgraded interest of the European Union, and the clear linkage between EU-Turkey relations and the Cyprus issue, in the belief that this will lead to concrete results,” Antoniou said.
He added that the Government's objective is “the evolution of the Republic of Cyprus into a modern state, a member of the European Union and the United Nations, that will offer all its lawful residents the right to live and create in conditions of security and prosperity, just like all other European citizens.”
Acknowledging that the current circumstances are difficult, Antoniou said there remains an obligation to continue efforts “so that we can hand over to our children a free homeland, without occupation troops, without guarantors and without intervention rights.”
Referring to the events of 1974, Antoniou said that, 52 years after the “tragic summer of 1974”, the sacrifices of those who defended Cyprus' freedom, territorial integrity and independence will be vindicated only through ending the occupation, liberating and reunifying the country.
“The treacherous coup of 15 July 1974 and the barbaric Turkish invasion that followed five days later remain bleeding wounds on the body of our homeland, in the heart of our people and in our collective conscience,” he added.
