Cyprus News Agency: News in English, 12-01-13

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From: The Cyprus News Agency at <http://www.cyna.org.cy>

CONTENTS

[01] Spokesman: Greek Cypriot side dismisses arbitration

[02] Appropriate action taken regarding ``Chariot``

[01] Spokesman: Greek Cypriot side dismisses arbitration

Replying to questions, Stephanou said the Greek Cypriot side insists on a solution providing for a bizonal bicommunal federation, noting that unfortunately the Turkish side`s positions and remarks are far from being in line with this agreed basis for a solution.

Asked if the Government shared views that negotiations may be heading towards a deadlock, Stephanou said when negotiating, reaching a deadlock is not out of the question. ``Our aim, of course, is neither a deadlock nor maintaining a non solution. This is why the President of the Republic is participating in the negotiations,`` Stephanou pointed out, adding that ``unfortunately the negative and delaying stance of the Turkish side has not permitted a solution so far.``

Stephanou also noted that the Turkish side has not allowed any progress on core issues, such as properties, territory and citizenship, in view of a meeting later this month at Greentree, Long Island, with the UN Secretary General. He noted that, since the UN chief has invited the leaders of the two communities to Greentree, the President will be attending the meeting. ``We will see how things go at Greentree and we will evaluate the outcome,`` Stephanou said, noting that ``the President of the Republic remains consistent with what he has been defending for so long.``

[02] Appropriate action taken regarding ``Chariot``

Government Spokesman Stephanos Stephanou assured that ``all appropriate action was taken, taking into consideration EU regulations, thus serving the interests of Cyprus and the public interest.``

Replying to questions, Stephanou said the shipowners had stated Turkey as the ship`s destination.

The authorities had decided to prevent the refueling and departure of the ship from its Limassol anchorage when upon inspection it was concluded that the ship carried dangerous cargo destined for Syria and Turkey. The ``Chariot``, which carries the flag of St. Vincent and The Grenadines and is owned by Russian company Westberg Ltd, St. Petersburg, Russia, had anchored at Limassol Port for refueling after it was obliged to seek refuge and fuel due to bad weather conditions.

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