Akıncı: “Works for opening Aplıç gate could be completed by the end of this year”

President Mustafa Akıncı stated that works to open the Aplıç gate, for reciprocal crossings, could be completed by the end of this year.

Speaking at a reception, Akıncı reminded of his promise regarding the opening of Apliç gate and said that during his meeting with the Greek Cypriot Leader Nikos Anastasiades held on 28 May within the framework of the negotiations continuing to find a settlement in Cyprus, they reached an agreement on opening the Apliç gate for crossings in the West and Derinya gate in the East.   Expressing that alternatives were also offered about the crossings, Akıncı said that a second road was offered for the Aplıç gate but then the first idea was agreed upon to be implemented.

Futhermore Akıncı indicated that some military considerations exist on the crossing point which is planned to be opened in Derinya and technical works are continuing on this issue.

Pointing out that the crossing points can be opened only by mutual consent, Akıncı said “One day, these gates will be opened by a reconciliation because the political will exists and its requirements will be fulfilled”.

Akıncı also reminded that a minefield in the area should be cleaned in order to open the Aplıç gate.