The month of July has been quite constructive in addressing difficulties in the framework of the Cyprus talks, President of the Republic, Nicos Anastasiades, said on Tuesday.
Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci (L) – President of the Republic of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades (R)
The President was speaking to the media, at the Presidential Palace, upon his return from the meeting he had with Turkish Cypriot leader, Mustafa Akinci, in the framework of the UN-led talks for a solution to the Cyprus problem.
The meeting, the President said, was constructive and focused on internal security issues and jurisdiction.
Through the dialogue, he added, each side understands better the concerns of the other side and through a constructive contribution, improvements and progress are achieved.
Asked whether the two sides reached any convergences today, he said there have been some but refrained from elaborating.
The leaders will meet again on Friday, 29th of July. According to President Anastasiades during that meeting they will exchange general views on the issues of territorial adjustments, security and guarantees and properties.
“I have to say that especially July has been quite constructive in addressing, in solving difficulties that seemed for many times as insurmountable”, he stressed.
Replying to questions, the President said that after the summer break there will be a new intensified round the last ten days of August and the first ten days of September.
Asked if the Greek Cypriot side is satisfied with the resolution for the renewal of UNFICYP`s mandate (UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus), he said “I do not see what could cause problems either to our side or to any side”, adding that what matters is what is being done at the negotiating table.
Pointing out that there is a continuous progress on a series of issues, he said that nevertheless he can not give a positive note if the problems are not solved, including the properties chapter, the territorial adjustments, security and guarantees and other pending issues.
Asked whether the goal for a solution in 2016 is not within reach, he said that the goal and the wish is to achieve a solution this year but noted that this does not depend on our wish, it depends on the positions put forward at the negotiations.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. UN-led talks between Anastasiades and Akinci have been underway since May 2015, aiming to reunify the island under a federal roof.
