Cyprus PIO: News Update in English, 02-06-27

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

Thursday, 27 June 2002

CONTENTS

• [01] House President receives Australian Special Envoy for Cyprus
• [02] US remains committed to finding a lasting settlement in Cyprus
• [03] US Ambassador-Designate to Cyprus: A Cyprus solution must be based on a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation

[01] House President receives Australian Special Envoy for Cyprus

During the meeting, the House President made a short historical review of the Cyprus problem, pointing out the increasing intransigence of the Turkish side, which was climaxed with its claim for a settlement of the Cyprus problem on the basis of two sovereign states, violating international law as well as UN decisions and resolutions on Cyprus.

Mr Christofias stressed that the key to overcoming the existing stalemate lies in Ankara and its strong allies, especially the United States, which would have to press Turkey to change its stance on the Cyprus problem.

The House President also stressed that the European Union would have to implement its decisions, in relation to Cyprus' accession to the European Union, and not to allow Turkey to impede Cyprus' EU course.

On his part, Mr Short characterized the current situation as obsolete and expressed hope that the current stalemate would be surpassed.

Finally, Mr Short conveyed the eager wish of the Greek-Cypriots and the Turkish-Cypriots residing in Australia for a positive outcome of the direct talks.

[02] US remains committed to finding a lasting settlement in Cyprus

June 2002 his bimonthly report to Congress. The text of the letter is as follows:

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Mr. Chairman:)

In accordance with section 620C(c) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended, I am providing a report prepared by my Administration on progress toward a negotiated solution of the Cyprus question covering the period April 1, 2002, through May 31, 2002. The previous submission covered events from February 1, 2002, through March 31, 2002.

Direct talks on the island between Greek Cypriot leader Glafcos Clerides and Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash continue under U.N. auspices as they strive to meet their stated objective of a comprehensive settlement by the end of this month. As in past reporting periods, Special Cyprus Coordinator Thomas G. Weston and U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus Donald K. Bandler provided diplomatic support to the process. The United States remains committed to the United Nations effort to find a just and lasting settlement to the Cyprus problem.

Sincerely,

GEORGE W. BUSH

[03] US Ambassador-Designate to Cyprus: A Cyprus solution must be based on a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation

"The state of our bilateral relationship with the Republic of Cyprus is strong. Visits to the United States this year by former President Vassiliou, House of Representatives President Christofias, and House Foreign Committee Chairman Anastassiades reflect the closeness of our ties. If confirmed, it would be one of my major goals to continue cultivating and strengthening the bilateral relationship in support of key U.S. priorities."

Expressing his county's gratitude to Cyprus, he said: "The United States appreciates Cyprus' cooperation in counter-terrorism since September 11 and its willingness to be a good friend and partner on other matters of importance to us. Recently, the Government of Cyprus was of enormous help when it agreed to allow the thirteen Palestinians in Bethlehem to stopover temporarily on their way to final destinations in the EU".

Concluding, Mr Klosson said: "As the United States has articulated many times over the years, however, we believe that a Cyprus solution must be based on a bi-zonal bi-communal federation, and that it is possible to reach a settlement that addresses the legitimate concerns of both sides and promotes regional stability."

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

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