The government of Cyprus is asking the EU to exert pressure on Turkey so that it understands that it has to contribute and help efforts to solve the Cyprus problem, Government Spokesman Stephanos Stephanou said on Tuesday, adding that President of the Republic Demetris Christofias is making every effort within the EU to inform member states on the Cyprus problem and is underlining the need for the EU to work towards Turkey to contribute to the settlement of the problem.
Replying to questions on the role of the EU in efforts to solve the Cyprus problem, Stephanou said European support concerns firstly expertise and secondly the general help for a settlement.
''It is well known that we are working and asking the EU to exert pressure on Turkey so that it understands that it has to contribute and help efforts to solve the Cyprus problem,'' Stephanou said, adding that President of the Republic Demetris Christofias is making every effort within the EU to inform member states on the Cyprus problem and developments and at the same time ''underlines the need for the EU to work towards Turkey to contribute to the settlement of the problem.''
Replying to questions, Stephanou pointed out that Turkey must implement the Ankara Protocol and contribute towards a just and viable solution of the Cyprus problem.
He added that the Republic of Cyprus was in favour of Turkey's accession to the EU as long as Turkey fulfills its obligations.
Asked if the government favours EU involvement in the process, Stephanou said the process is in the hands of the Cypriots.
He noted that the Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, ''through their work and with respect and the promotion of what the two communities have agreed on regarding the basis of the solution, and with respect to relevant UN resolutions, should pave the way for a solution of the Cyprus problem which will terminate the occupation and reunite Cyprus.''
Stephanou also pointed out that the government would not accept arbitration, taking into consideration the developments in 2004.
Cyprus, which joined the EU in 2004, has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third.
