THE LEADERS of the two communities have agreed to more points on a potential solution than at any time since 1974, said the UN’s Special Envoy Alexander Downer yesterday.
The UN envoy acknowledged the “possibility” of a three-stage process in the talks, where the chapters under discussion are divided into a “first reading”, followed by a second and then a third in the autumn where the two leaders enter into a more intense give-and-take procedure. He noted, however, that give-and-take was part of the whole process, not just the end phase.
The Australian diplomat further highlighted the high level of support but also “expectation” among the international community for a solution.
Speaking after yesterday’s meeting between the two leaders, Downer said: “They have made real progress…more has been agreed between the two parties and written down than at any time since 1974.
“Of course, you know the Annan Plan had a lot of words in it but it wasn’t agreed in the sense that this is agreed material between the two leaders and that, I think, is pretty encouraging,” he added.
His sentiments were echoed by both leaders who came out of the talks on EU affairs citing progress, though both added that there was work still to be done on the chapter.
President Demetris Christofias said that a convergence of views had been achieved on many issues, while at the same time basic issues were left open to be tackled at a later point.
It was announced that the two leaders will begin talks on the economy at their next meeting on April 15. However, the Turkish Cypriot press yesterday reported that Talat planned to meet US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in Washington on the same day.
After the meeting, Downer announced the implementation of four confidence-building measures which had been agreed months earlier.
“The first is the crossing of ambulances in emergency cases that will come into effect from next week. The committee on communications and liaison for crime and criminal matters will come into force. The Advisory Board has been established on the preservation of cultural heritage. And the project which is funded by UNDP to deal with water-saving measures is proceeding as well,” said Downer.
Talat described the crime liaison committee as “the first and most significant issue of cooperation agreed upon since 1963”.
Before the official talks began yesterday, the two leaders had their usual one and a half hour tête-à-tête, after which they took a 20-minute walk while their representatives discussed technical issues.
Regarding EU issues still pending, Christofias said the most serious issue was disagreement over Protocol 10 of the Accession Agreement concerning the implementation of the acquis communautaire in all areas of the Republic after a solution.
“The Turkish Cypriots have a different view. They want many deviations from the acquis. We consider that if there is anything, it should be short transitional periods,” he said.
On the issue of Limnitis crossing, the president said he raises the issue at every meeting and would continue to do so, adding: “I want to give a friendly answer to those who say that Ledra Street must close. These positions are not constructive. Ledra Street is something we achieved. We cannot go back.”
