by Apostolis Zoupaniotis
United Nations (CNA) – Cyprus Permanent Representative to the UN Andreas Mavroyiannis has said that the Greek Cypriot side has reservations and objections regarding UN Secretary General’s report on the United Nations operation in Cyprus, and particularly as regards his reference to the so-called isolation of the Turkish Cypriot community.
Mavroyiannis welcomed Ban Ki-moon’s recommendation that the Security Council extend the mandate of UNFICYP by a further period of six months, until 15 June 2008, but expressed the Greek Cypriot side’s reservations and objections to the way the UNSG refers to some events and the terminology used.
“I particularly note the objection of our side to the reference of the so called ‘isolation of the Turkish Cypriot community’. Our position is that is time to terminate this myth. There is no isolation of the Turkish Cypriots, either as individuals or collectively as a Turkish Cypriot community,†Mavroyiannis stressed.
He noted that Turkey has set up an illegal entity in Cyprus’ occupied areas, an action that has been denounced through UN Security resolutions 541 and 550, and that resolution 550 called on all states not to recognize this illegal entity.
Mavroyiannis noted that despite the fact that the report refers to the issue of lifting the so called isolation, it also makes clear that any actions towards this direction must comply with the UN Security Council resolutions, and stressed that “this is something of determining importance for usâ€
The Cypriot diplomat also expressed regret that while the report notes the significance of economic development as a factor that can contribute to a solution, there is no reference to the repercussions of occupation. In addition, no reference is made to the significance of the return of refugees and of their properties and to the consequences of the construction boom and the destruction of the cultural and religious heritage, which encumber efforts for a settlement.
Mavroyiannis also said that despite the fact that there is an effort to keep equal distances, it is clear that the stance of the Greek Cypriot side is generally described as a constructive one, despite the fact that it is said that political will is required from both sides with a view to achieve progress.
“Our side has shown its political will. What is needed is political will from the Turkish side, which unfortunately, as indicated in the framework of efforts to implement the 8 July Agreement, is absent, as well as a series of confidence building measures, including the opening of new crossing points across the cease-fire line,â€, Mavroyiannis concluded.
