European Left members discuss Cyprus question

European Left Chairman and one of the leaders of the Left party in Germany Lothar Bisky has expressed support to a just settlement of the Cyprus problem.

Speaking during a symposium organized by leftwing AKEL political party on ”EU and the Cyprus problem”, Bisky said the European and German Left support the candidacy of AKEL Secretary General Demetris Christofias in presidential elections to take place Sunday February 17.

“We want to address the challenges of the new European integration and I would like to express my solidarity with our comrades from AKEL, who have been always against the occupation of the northern part of Cyprus, an occupation which is contrary to the international law. We want a peaceful settlement in this dispute and we eagerly support you in this effort,” he added.

On his part, member of European United Left–Nordic Green Left at the European Parliament and member of the European Parliament Petitions Committee, Spanish Willy Meyer, said Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayiip Erdogan must receive the message that he must respect international law and that there should be no Turkish army in the Republic of Cyprus.

Referring to a report drafted by the Petitions Committee on the occupied town of Famagusta, Meyer said it was unacceptable that in the 21st century, EU citizens do not have the right to return to their home town.

He expressed support to Christofias’ candidacy, adding that Europe needs leaders like him, who believe in the welfare state, peace, international law and development.

Furthermore, former Minister of Greek political party PASOK George Paschalides stressed the need for mobility on Cyprus issue, which would utilise Cyprus’ EU membership and Turkey’s accession course, aiming to the reunification of the island.