No timetable could be set as regards the talks to solve the Cyprus problem, President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades said on Saturday.
Speaking to the press while on scheduled visit to Larnaka district, the President said that instead of setting timetables, it is better to demonstrate political will and sincerity in our intentions.
Invited to comment on statements made by Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci about timeframes, the President expressed the belief that there could be a new round of negotiations if the International Law, the European acquis and the framework set by UNSG Antonio Guterres are respected.
Referring to timeframes, the President said that we are not in favour of a round of talks that will go on forever, however, he pointed out that no timetables can be set which eventually will lead to a new failure.
Replying to another question about statements from the Turkish Cypriot side that the basis of the talks must change, the President underlined that talks are Cypriot led and defined by the UN and therefore one side cannot just determine the conditions without informing the other.
The Republic of Cyprus, an EU member state since 2004, has been divided since the Turkish invasion in the summer of 1974. Turkish troops still occupy 37% of Cyprus’ territory.
Last round of negotiations under the UN auspices failed to yield any results. Talks aim to reunite Cyprus under a federal roof.