President Akıncı sent a letter to United Nations Secretary-General
17 February, 2017Prime Minister opens the second International Cycling Tour of North Cyprus
17 February, 2017Stating that the progress of the negotiations will be determined by the Greek Cypriot side, President Mustafa Akıncı said that it will be up to them to decide whether to concentrate on the elections or on a solution.
In a statement following his meeting with the UN Secretary General’s Special Advisor on Cyprus Espen Barth Eide, President Akıncı stressed the indignation caused by the decision of the Greek Cypriot House of Representatives to celebrate the Enosis plebiscite at Greek Cypriot schools. Akıncı said that he asked the Greek Cypriot leader to take a firm stance and challenge the decision. Akıncı also reiterated his outreach under the auspices of the UN on the issue and his letter sent to UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.
Adding that he had discussed this issue face to face with Eide yesterday, Akıncı said that he will also discuss the decision with Greek Cypriot leader Anastasiades today. As it stands, it appears that Anastasiades does not want to understand the real dimension of the issue and considers it as a passing reference to an historical event.
Akıncı noted that the United Nations should comprehend the issue very well because they bring the two sides together and try to contribute to the process with their good will.
As long as Anastasiades and his party continue to prioritize the elections rather than the negotiation process, the peace talks will be undermined, Akıncı added.
Akıncı stated that he will meet with Anastasiades today but their discussion will be solely focused on the Enosis plebiscite. Akıncı will listen to the views of Anastasiades regarding the decision and seek clarity on what the Greek Cypriot leader intends to do on the issue.