Cyprus Peace Platform calls for return of Famagusta

The Cyprus Peace Platform, which is based in the Turkish-occupied areas of Cyprus, has called for a population census to take place at both communities of the island which will be monitored by international experts, prior to the referenda that will take place as agreed by the two leaders on the island.
President Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat have decided that the agreed solution to the Cyprus problem will be put to separate simultaneous referenda to the Greek Cypriot and the Turkish Cypriot community.
A fresh attempt to reach a solution of the Cyprus problem began this September when the leaders of the two communities in Cyprus, began substantive negotiations with a view to reunify Cyprus.
Platform Spokesman Ozkun Kutalmis said the procedure that began on 3 September should protect the rights of both communities according to the UN parameters. He further underscored that this procedure should be expedited.
He stressed that a solution should provide for a bizonal, bicommunal federal Cyprus, based on equality, with a single sovereignty, international identify, as agreed by the leaders during their 1st July meeting.
The Platform Spokesman further said that both leaders have a duty and responsibility to expedite the process for a solution.
He also referred to confidence building measures which will help the negotiations, such as opening more crossing points, demilitarization, halting all military manuevres, abolishing chauvinistic elements from education and the return of Famagusta to its lawful citizens.
Kutalmis said the return of Famagusta to its inhabitants will provide economic, social and political development for both communities.
He also said that Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat should not waste time during the negotiations for the sake of Turkey’s accession to the EU but should create the conditions that will help a solution. Kutalmis further called on both Talat and President of the Republic Demetris Christofias not to impair the positive atmosphere that has been created during the talks.