Cyprus PIO: News Update in English, 01-12-19

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From: The Republic of Cyprus Press and Information Office Server at <http://www.pio.gov.cy/>

Wednesday, 19 December 2001

CONTENTS

• [01] Lord Hanney: Cyprus solution and EU accession feasible
• [02] Cyprus and Slovakia sign a cooperation agreement

[01] Lord Hanney: Cyprus solution and EU accession feasible

In his opening remarks, Lord Hannay referred to the meeting of 4th December 2001 between President Clerides and Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash and said that the clear concentration by both sides on the core issues of substance was encouraging. At the same time he welcomed the absence of tactical manoeuvres.

He pointed out that there is a sense of urgency now, that everyone is working to a timetable, but clarified that this timetable is not an ultimatum, or a threat and that both sides understand that it can be put to good use.

The message he brought from Britain was that it applauded the initiative for a face-to-face meeting between President Clerides and Mr Denktash and their decision to begin direct negotiations in mid January until they reach a successful conclusion.

Moreover, Britain believed that a settlement, which respects the vital interests of both sides, Greece and Turkey can be reached and that this settlement will have to be approved by a referendum in each of the two communities.

Lord Hanney stressed that Britain, as member of the European Union, believed it was feasible to see a reunited island joining the EU following a settlement on the timetable laid down by the EU in Laeken (December 2001), adding that the EU would accommodate a UN settlement in the terms of accession.

The British diplomat underlined that Britain's part in the peace effort is subsidiary and supportive of the UN and the parties' efforts.

Concluding, Lord Hanney said that the current negotiations are in the hands of the Cypriots on both sides and they themselves will find the solutions.

[02] Cyprus and Slovakia sign a cooperation agreement

Speaking after the signing ceremony, Mr Moushouttas stressed the importance of the agreement, signed at a time when both countries are in the final stages of their EU accession negotiations. On his part Mr Magvasi said that the agreement marks a new stage in the relations between Cyprus and Slovakia, which have been sincere and constructive since 1994, when the agreement on the right of movement of citizens for work purposes, was signed between the two countries.

From the Republic of Cyprus Press and Information Office (PIO) Server at http://www.pio.gov.cy/

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