Overseas Cypriots ask for more money to promote Cyprus cause

President of the World Federation of Overseas Cypriots (POMAK) Charis Sophoclides and President of the Coordinating Committee Justice for Cyprus (PSEKA) Philip Christopher both pointed out on Saturday that an increase in their funds would facilitate the further promotion of the Cyprus problem abroad.
In a press conference after the 15th World Congress of Overseas Cypriots, which took place in Nicosia, Sophoclides pointed out that ”money talks,” adding that more attention should be given to the professional lobby.
Christopher said the funds provided by the governments of Greece and Cyprus for enlightenment purposes should exceed $50 million, in order to effectively tackle Turkish propaganda.
Both Sophoclides and Christopher said this year’s congress was one of the best yet, adding that it was productive and well organised.
Furthermore, Christopher expressed satisfaction over a televised message by Undersecretary of State at the US State Department Nicholas Burns at PSEKA’s congress, who said the US recognise one state in Cyprus, the Republic of Cyprus, and that he would be visiting the island in September or October.
”I am pleased to say that our work has changed a policy, not of course the longstanding pro-Turkish position of the State Department due to various interests,” he said, adding that the message was encouraging.
Replying to questions about the appointment of British Special Representative for Cyprus Joan Ryan, Sophoclides said ”her role will not be a catalyst for a Cyprus settlement,” and expressed hope that she would contribute a humanitarian rather than a diplomatic instrument to the government of Prime Minister Gordon Brown.