Akinci: A solution to the Cyprus problem could be reached within months, not years
Turkish Cypriot daily Kibris newspaper (26.06.15) reports that Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci, said yesterday that the field of tourism in the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus will be improved when a solution to the Cyprus problem is reached and pointed out to the importance of expanding the tourism period throughout the whole year.
In statements during a meeting with the Turkish Cypriot hoteliers’ union, Akinci underlined the relation of tourism with the existence of peace, adding that tourism in Cyprus will be improved in both sides the day a solution is reached. “We are working for this, we are exerting every effort we can”, he said.
Arguing that it has always been dangerous to give a date for the solution of the Cyprus problem, Akinci noted that they have seen this in the past. He recalled that they had been declaring almost every year as “the year of peace”, but disappointment was experienced as soon as this was not achieved. Therefore we are cautious, he added.
He noted that he does not want to give any final date as regards the solution, but argued that “everyone thinks that enough negotiations have been held, discussions have been going on for 47 years since 1968 and all issues have been discussed”. “What remains is the political determination and will which the two sides will show and those who will assist in this to be able to behave within the scope of this will”, he claimed and concluded:
“Therefore, I have referred to months, not years. I have said that the issue could reach a solution within months not years, if there is the will. I believe this. We are determined on this issue to continue our efforts and reach a solution within the next months”.