Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades has made it clear once more that he will not respond to any pressure to return to the negotiating table under threat or blackmail in order for a solution to the Cyprus issue dictated by military power to be imposed.
He was addressing an official lunch he hosted in honour of Archbishop of America Demetrios, who is visiting Cyprus.
Referring to the Cypriot economy he expressed his absolute satisfaction for the restoration of the country`s credibility due to the continuous positive Troika reviews and upgrades by international rating agencies.
It is a credibility that now covers the banking system, he said, referring to the official announcement, on Sunday, of the results of a pan – European comprehensive assessment of banks by the European Central Bank and the European Banking Authority.
Addressing Demetrios he said that his presence in the island confirms anew his continuous interest, consistent support and sincere love of the Cypriot people, thanking him for his longstanding contribution to Cypriots on behalf of the people of Cyprus and of himself personally.
Referring to the Cyprus issue President Anastasiades referred to Ankara`s intransigence and its recent provocative actions.
Despite Ankara having promised many times to powerful strategic partners that it would contribute positively to the effort for reunification of the island, a few days ahead of the next round of concrete talks it chose to reconfirm its intransigence with military operations which violate the Republic of Cyprus` sovereign rights at sea, he pointed out.
He made it clear to all concerned that “I am not willing to accept any pressure to return to a dialogue under threat or blackmail so that a solution which dictated by military power can be imposed”.
At the same time he reconfirmed his sincere will and determination to work tirelessly so that Cyprus can become a modern European state, a state of peace and prosperity.
Referring to Cyprus` natural resources he stressed that it belongs to the state and that after a solution is found the benefits derived from its exploitation will be enjoyed by all the legal residents of the country.
Military threats and illegal violations under the pretext of doing it on behalf of the Turkish Cypriots do not help in securing what is self – evident, he said. On the contrary, he added they weaken the prospects of finding a solution and of taking advantage of the incentive offered by natural resources.
Turkish seismic exploration vessel `Barbaros` entered Cyprus` Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The move comes a few days after Turkey issued a maritime order (NAVTEX) for the area. This prompted President Nicos Anastasiades to suspend his participation in the UN backed negotiations which aim to reunify the island under a federal roof.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded and occupied its northern third.
