Bi-communal group concerned over Eroglu’s political approach

BI-COMMUNAL forum Cypriots’ Voice has expressed its “deep concern” over new Turkish Cypriot leader Dervis Eroglu’s ‘two-state’ approach regarding Cyprus.

In a joint communiqué, issued after a meeting in Agros this week, the Forum noted “we expect intensification and acceleration of the negotiation process with a view to reaching an agreement towards the end of 2010”.

Referring to his political views, the group said “notwithstanding Eroglu’s past positions, we take note of the readiness expressed in his letter of April 23, 2010 to the UNSG for the continuation of the talks “from where they were left in line with May 23, 2008 joint statement”.

“We also note with deep concern the ‘two-state approach’ in the same letter, which should not dominate the future of the negotiations.

Whether the “two state approach” emanates from decision makers of Turkey or be it Eroglu’s position, it will not be helpful for any positive developments in the negotiation process”, it is stressed.

The Forum also expects a more active involvement of the governments of Turkey and Greece along with the international community in the efforts towards lifting of all the barriers blocking an early solution.

As regards the EU regulation for direct trade between Turkish Cypriot and the EU, the Forum calls upon those concerned “to refrain from acting in ways that might undermine the negotiation process”.

“We call upon the two leaders to approach the negotiation process in a win-win spirit aiming at satisfying the needs and expectations of the people of Cyprus as a whole, thus complying with the EU principle of “unity in diversity”“, it concludes. (CNA)

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