Junker meets representatives of Turkish Cypriot political parties; Statements by Akinci and Junker
Turkish Cypriot daily Kibris newspaper (17.07.15) reports that the President of the European Commission, Jean Claude Junker and his delegation met yesterday in the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus with the Turkish Cypriot leader, Mustafa Akinci and representatives of the Turkish Cypriot political parties which have “seats” in the “assembly” of the breakaway regime.
In statements after the meetings, Akinci described both of them as “very productive”. Referring to the Cyprus problem, Akinci said that progress has been achieved in the negotiations and if the same determination continues, finding a solution will be possible within months. He noted that the EU cannot replace the UN and that the process is and will continue to be a UN-led one. On the other hand, he added that they will be glad to have the assistance of the EU and the inclusion of an EU official in the process as regards the technical matters.
Akinci said that they have discussed with Junker the issue of the preparation of the Turkish Cypriots for the period after the solution and for joining the EU. He further referred to the importance of increasing the relations of the Turkish Cypriots with the EU within this framework and of their harmonization with the EU rules and the acquis. Akinci said that they expect the EU to show understanding and provide the necessary support for the preparation of the Turkish Cypriots. Noting that he is certain that the Turkish Cypriots will enter into the EU, Akinci added that even if they remain outside the Union, the Turkish Cypriots are Europeans and believe in the European principles and respect the European values.
Pointing out to the importance of balancing the European values with the principles of a bi-zonal, bi-communal structure, Akinci argued that on the one hand the European values and rules exist and on the other the principle of bi-zonality and bi-communality should be respected. He underlined the importance of having derogations in the solution as regards this issue and the harmonization with the acquis. He claimed that the agreement which will be reached should not have legal deficiencies and no one should be able to take it to court. “We want a legally definite agreement and this agreement to become a part of the EU law”, he added.
Meanwhile, Junker said after meeting the two leaders that he is very optimistic that a solution will be reached in Cyprus and added that the Cypriots should leave the past behind because they have two leaders who look at the future. He noted that after “tough” negotiations during the joint lunch he had with the two leaders, they reached a common understanding as regards the geographical protection of halloumi/ hellim cheese under the EU rules. He also said that he has reappointed Pieter Van Nuffel as his personal special representative for the Cyprus problem.
(I/Ts.)
