Intervention of the Parliamentary Leader of the Democratic Rally (DISY), Mr Nicos Tornaritis, at the bi-communal meeting of Greek and Turkish Cypriot

Intervention of the Parliamentary Leader of the Democratic Rally (DISY), Mr Nicos Tornaritis, at the bi-communal meeting of Greek and Turkish Cypriot Political Parties at Ledra Palace - 28.09.2016

Theme: “Negotiation Process: This opportunity must be seized”

• The meeting in New York between the UN Secretary-General and the two leaders took place without any unexpected results. It was reaffirmed that the current negotiation process is Cypriot-owned and Cypriot-led and does not include any strict timetables or arbitration.

• The two leaders agreed to further intensify their negotiations in order to resolve their outstanding issues as soon as possible. At the same time, the UN Secretary-General himself was asked to play a more active role in the procedure. We consider these facts to be positive developments.

• The Democratic Rally recognizes the progress that has been achieved on important aspects of the Cyprus Problem. We hope that the current negotiations will lead to a viable and functional solution, which will end the unacceptable status quo and create a win-win situation for all Cypriots.

• Despite the significant progress achieved, we also recognize that differences remain on a number of issues. The most significant differences lie in the core and fundamental chapters of Property, Territory and Security and Guarantees which will weigh significantly as to whether a solution would be feasible.

• We believe that we can reach a solution the soonest and, if possible, by the end of 2016, provided that all interested parties, and in particular Turkey, engage constructively and proceed with concrete and tangible steps which will positively reinforce the negotiating process. There is no doubt that Turkey plays a key role especially in the chapters of Territory and Security and Guarantees.

• We express once again our goodwill and readiness for a reasonable and balanced compromise but we cannot accept a solution that will maintain in Cyprus third country military troops, guarantees or any rights of unilateral intervention.

• The Democratic Rally calls on all political forces to support the ongoing negotiation process through dialogue and constructive proposals. We have to seize this historic opportunity to create a peaceful future for the next generations of Cyprus.

• Let us not forget that Cyprus is the best and only port for all Cypriots!