“We are not optimistic” about the outcome of the direct talks between the leaders of the two communities, “not because we do not want to be optimistic, but because the Turkish side does not allow us to be, due to its stance and the unreasonable positions it puts on the negotiation table”, Garoyian stressed.
Speaking here today, on the sidelines of an event organized by the Nicosia Heart Patients’ Association, and replying to questions about the direct negotiations between Cyprus President and Turkish Cypriot leader, Garoyian noted that “we are still at the beginning of the process”, during which the issue of Governance is still being discussed.
“So far, we have not seen any signs of change in the Turkish policy”, he added.
House President said that for that reason the Greek Cypriot side has persistently requested from the international community to exert pressure on Turkey to change its stance towards Cyprus.
“Our side has proceeded to the direct negotiations with discretion and with an argumentation that is fully consistent with both the International and the European Law”, Garoyian said, and added, “If the Turkish side does not abandon that stance, we cannot be optimistic” about the outcome of the process.
Furthermore, Garoyian noted the international community recognizes that the Greek Cypriot side and President Christofias act in a constructive and essential manner and raise positions that are consistent with the International Law, the UN resolutions and the EU principles and values.
Finally, Garoyian stressed that the Greek Cypriot side should continue being constructive during the direct talks, in order to create the preconditions that will pave the way for the solution of the Cyprus issue.
President Christofias and T/c leader Talat have been engaged in talks since early September, with a view to reach an agreement that will reunite Cyprus, which has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Technical committees and working groups, comprising experts from the Greek Cypriot and the Turkish Cypriot communities, have been set up to help the work of the leaders by preparing the ground for the start of direct negotiations which began on 3 September.
Financial Mirror, October 06, 2008
