COALITION partners DIKO yesterday said the Greek Cypriot proposals on the property issue cannot be the basis for a solution of the matter, but they neither rejected nor approved the relevant document tabled by President Demetris Christofias in the negotiations.
“We do not care about labels,” DIKO leader Marios Garoyian said yesterday. “One can receive this any way they want. If some people think that we rejected it (document) or accepted it as a whole, it is their right.”
On Tuesday, the party’s executive office unanimously agreed that the “document on the property issue submitted by the President cannot constitute a basis for a solution of the matter.”
“Our position is crystal clear,” Garoyian said. “From then on the essence is the most important thing.”
The DIKO chief also had a go at those who suggested that the party would emerge divided on the matter.
“For once more, those who imagine and speculate about divisive views and scenarios in the Democratic Party are proven wrong,” Garoyian said.
Tuesday’s unanimous decision on property confirms the party’s consistence on principles and its unwavering and enduring positions, he added.
The party said some of the Greek Cypriot positions need to be restated more clearly and there should be additions, like stressing the respect for human rights, international law and the EU acquis communitaire.
The document also contains ambiguities and contradictions whose wording cannot be accepted because they limit, distort and negate principles and positions – something that could be dangerous.
“Especially considering Turkey’s aims but also those of cunning third parties who are inclined to misinterpret positions and exploit constructive ambiguities,” Garoyian said.
DIKO said it will submit its observations, views, concerns and disagreements in detail to the National Council and the president.
The basic position of the Greek Cypriot side is that the legal owners of the properties in the north should have first choice – in case of a solution – to decide if they want restitution, exchange or compensation.
The Turkish Cypriot side proposes that the final decision for every property should be made by a property commission based on criteria, which will essentially preclude – except in rare cases — restoration of the property rights of the lawful owners, DIKO said.
