Mediators work on five points to satisfy both sides

THE international community is suggesting five points that could be changed in the Annan plan, which could satisfy both sides, reports said yesterday.

The five points, which it is believed mediators are pushing for behind the scenes, include the alignment of territory, the return of Greek Cypriots to the Turkish Cypriot constituent state, the Presidential Council, the Supreme Court and the issue of troops.

The proposals are designed to make it more palatable for the two sides to go back to their respective populations and promote a ‘yes’ vote in the referenda in April.

Both sides have put their cards on the table regarding changes they want to the plan so that a give-and-take process can begin.

The Annan plan proposes that the Turkish Cypriot side remain with 28.5 per cent territory, but mediators feel there is room for the Turkish side to give more as they are the ones seeking a ‘straight line’.

Another area where mediators feel there is room for give and take is the issue of the composition of the Presidential Council, from the proposed six members (a ratio of 4:2) to nine with a ratio of 6:3, provided that at least two votes form each constituent state are necessary for decision making. The current provision is one from each state.

A proposal is also on the table for the reinforcement of bi-zonality, an issue close to the heart of Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash. The Annan plan provides for 21 per cent of Greek Cypriots eventually to be able to settle in the Turkish Cypriot constituent state. Denktash wants it reduced to 12 per cent. However, mediators are looking into the possibility of allowing more Greek Cypriots to settle in the north but without voting rights.

According to the reports, both sides have accepted the setting up of a court of first instance.

The fifth issue involves the number of troops. The plan says 6,000 from each side should remain, with a timeframe for withdrawal. The numbers could be reduced further and the timeframe extended. At the same time, a provision could be included for the substantial reinforcement of UNFICYP, according to the reports.

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