Anastasiades discusses Cyprus issue and the economy with Barroso

Deputy President Averof Neofytou was also present in the meeting.

Concerning the Cyprus issue, Anastasiades and Barroso agreed that negotiations need to find a way out from the deadlock, with DISY President noting that the negotiating process needs to be enlarged, to include the EU and Turkey. This way, Anastasiades added, Ankara will assume its responsibilities and contribute in a constructive manner to a Cyprus solution.

He said moreover that the EU needs to be involved more actively in the process, to secure the implementation of the acquis communautaire and human rights provisions.

Barroso agreed from his part on the need to find a Cyprus solution the soonest possible and said the European Commission was ready to contribute in a constructive way.

The two men also discussed the need to help the Cypriot economy recover from the crisis and get back to growth.

Anastasiades noted in particular that the EU should display its readiness to present clear crisis management policies and policies in support of the member states’ financial institutions.

He also said EFSF should directly recapitalize banks and spoke about a political decision to separate assets of Cypriot banks active in Greece, concerning their turnover in this country.

He further said that retaining current taxation levels was of vital importance for the Cypriot economy.

President Barroso also underlined the need for Cyprus to follow the Commission’s recommendations, with DISY President responding that both he and his party would remain committed towards them.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and occupied its northern third.