Under the above title, Turkish Cypriot daily Kibris newspaper (03.03.16) reports that Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci, in statements yesterday during the “1st “TRNC KOBI summit”, [Translator’s note: KOBI is Small and Medium Sized Enterprises in the occupied area of Cyprus, which was established with a U.S financial grant of 30.5 million dollars, aimed to develop the economy in the occupied area of Cyprus], described the SMEs as the “unsung hero of the economy” of the occupation regime.
Pointing out that “KOBI’s” aim is the development of the “economy” and the creation of a competitive structure in the “TRNC”, Akinci said: “It is highly important to become competitive not only within the federal structure to be in the future but also within the EU”. “By doing this, we will come closer to the solution”, Akinci argued and stressed that even if there will not be a solution, the Turkish Cypriots should establish a viable and competitive structure.
Referring to the Cyprus negotiation talks, Akinci said that after his “election” in “presidency” he exerted efforts with honesty and goodwill together with the cooperation of Turkey in order to find a solution on the Cyprus problem. He also explained that Cyprus as a whole and as a new state to be within the framework of a federal structure, should take its place inside the EU.
Pointing out that a remarkable progress has been achieved at the negotiation talks, Akinci added that there are still some difficulties in some core issues and underlined that they will continue their efforts in order for the process to yield a positive outcome.
Stating that they are carrying out the talks conscious that 2016 will be the year of the solution, Akinci stressed that this solution will reflect positively to the region.
Supporting that they should continue their path with the vision to turn the energy resources in the region as a mean of cooperation and not of friction, Akinci referred to the negative scenario of not being able to reach a federal solution in Cyprus and added that it is from this point of view that KOBI’s role is very important. He stated also that if no solution is found, the life in the occupied area of Cyprus will continue and said that that they should do all necessary in order to be able to become a part of the international law.