The main differences between the two sides in Cyprus regarding the joint announcement for the resumption of talks to solve the Cyprus problem still remain, sources told CNA.
Speaking after separate meetings the UN Secretary General`s Special Adviser on Cyprus Alexander Downer had with the negotiators of the two sides, the sources said that on some points progress was being made and on others it was not.
“Our main differences remain, that is our insistence on a clear basis and the insistence of the Turks to water down the basis because this is a cause for concern for them,” the sources said.
Regarding Downer`s meetings on Wednesday with the leaders of the two communities, namely President of the Republic of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades and Turkish Cypriot leader Dervis Eroglu, the sources said efforts to begin full-fledged negotiations would be discussed.
The sources noted that later on in the day Downer would be meeting with the two negotiators, namely Andreas Mavroyiannis and Osman Ertug.
Furthermore, the sources noted that for the Greek Cypriot side there was no question about ultimatums. “If we do not do our job, we did not do it. If there is an ultimatum it will be working against Mr. Downer alone, not us. We are here and we must do what we can to solve our problem,” the sources said, adding that the effort was continuing.
Regarding remarks by Turkish Minister for European Affairs Egemen Bagis, who expressed hope that the discussions with Downer would lead to a new plan by the end of the year that could be submitted for approval to the two communities in early 2014, the sources said this was wishful thinking.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third.
