Chambers of Commerce from Cyprus, Greece and Turkey expressed on Monday their support to the talks for the settlement of the Cyprus problem, as well as their determination to help the process in every way they can.
In a joint statement, issued after a “summit meeting”, in Nicosia, the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Commerce (TCCC), the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB) and the Union of Hellenic Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UHCCI) also announced the creation of the “Nicosia Economic Forum” that will meet regularly.
“The status quo is indeed unacceptable and its prolongation will have negative consequences for all” said the statement, that was read in Greek by CCCI President Phidias Pilides and in Turkish by TCCC President Fikri Toros, in the presence of the Presidents of UHCCI and TOBB, Constantine Michalos and Rıfat Hisarcıklıoğlu, respectively.
The Chambers expressed moreover their conviction that a comprehensive Cyprus solution will have considerable benefits for the economy of Cyprus, as well as for the entire region “that encompasses Cyprus, Greece and Turkey within an enlarged EU, where democratic principles, human rights and fundamental freedoms will be respected”.
A lasting, just, viable and functional solution will increase stability and security in the region and will create huge opportunities for cooperation and economic exchanges between Cyprus, Greece and Turkey, the statement noted.
The Chambers reiterated their commitment to contribute to the process, expressing at the same time readiness to support the efforts of the political leadership, through the creation of a positive atmosphere, through support to efforts aiming at confidence building measures, as well as by paving the way for economic and business cooperation.
Hisarcıklıoğlu and Michalos spoke of “historic moments”, expressing readiness to support the two Cypriot Chambers in their efforts, both at a local and European level.
The Chambers` next meeting will be held in Istanbul, on September 14.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and occupied its northern third. Peace talks resumed last February, aiming to reunite the country under a federal roof.