Akıncı: “Both the TRNC and the EU have a duty to reach a settlement”
6 December, 2016Support of Religious leaders of the work of the Committee on Missing Persons
8 December, 2016
Within the framework of his ongoing Brussels visit, President Mustafa Akıncı yesterday met with the US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Victoria Nuland, the President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz and the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini.
In a statement to the Anadolu Agency regarding his Brussels meetings so far, Akıncı said that they had discussed the current stage of the Cyprus issue and agreed on the importance of a roadmap going forward.
Akıncı highlighted during his meetings the long-standing commitment of the Turkish Cypriot people, who are continuing to seek a solution without ignoring the rights of the other community.
The President also noted that the equality, security and freedom of the Turkish Cypriot people are indispensable components of a solution, which are also important factors on both sides of the island.
Akıncı added: “You must be empathetic when you discuss the issues with contemporary approaches in this way. You must not only clearly put forward the points where you are right, but also fight for and defend them to the last – as long as you do not ignore the legitimate rights of the other community. You make your position, your case, and your thoughts much clearer this way and the third parties who listen to you will understand you better. I have experienced this in today’s meeting.”
Stating that the Turkish Cypriot people will continue to set out their position with the same determination hereafter, to ensure their needs and rights are being represented in the best possible way, President also Akıncı emphasized that January is a critical period for the future of Cyprus, the Turkish Cypriot people as a whole and particularly younger generations
Moreover, Akıncı said that he will now strive to bring the Cyprus issue to a happy ending together both in the political structure of the Turkish Cypriots, and in close consultation and dialogue with Turkey. He urged the Greek Cypriot side to adopt a similar approach.
In addition, the two negotiators will meet again today. The negotiating teams from both sides have agreed to meet three times a week ahead of the summit in Geneva.