Disy leader issues stark warning on future of Cyprus talks
The international community is inching closer towards giving up on hopes of solving the Cyprus problem on the basis of a bizonal, bicommunal federation, Disy leader Annita Demetriou said in a letter penned to President Nikos Christodoulides on Wednesday.
She cautioned that clashes with UN officials “and casting doubts over the objectivity of the UNSG reports” serves no purpose and undermines the Greek Cypriot side.
“After seven years of a complete standstill [over talks] and Turkey’s imposition of new and dangerous fait accompli, the Greek Cypriot side does not have the luxury to dismiss or ignore any suggestion by the UN without offering a satisfactory counterproposal,” she said.
Demetriou outlined four suggestions on how to move forward, including taking steps to open the checkpoint at Mia Milia, as well as another one in Pyroi or Pyrgo.
Violations in the buffer zone were also addressed in her proposals, where she referenced the controversial 14km fence placed at the behest of former Interior Minister Nicos Nouris and continues to remain there since 2021 despite objections raised by Unficyp.
“The fence is completely useless in achieving its aim to prevent irregular/illegal migrants while also bearing great political cost to Cyprus,” over which even the current interior minister had identified in Brussels.
Demetriou called on the president to publicly and personally reject proposals put before the National Council that reach the public eye which refer to rejecting a BBF, political equality or closing checkpoints.
“Such proposals, particularly by parties participating in your government, offer up an alibi for Turkish propaganda.
“They expose us to the EU and international community.”
Lastly, she said the resumption of the Turkey-EU High Level Dialogue would be necessary for Turkey’s internal agenda and requires the consent of the Republic.
Demetriou proposed Cyprus publicly expresses its intention to do so, provided negotiations resume.
Should the Republic not take action immediately towards solving the problem “the consequences will be catastrophic for the future of Cypriot Hellenism.”
She specified that it is important to have Cyprus’ clear and positive approach be without a shadow of doubt.
“We must always bear in mind what would work positively towards achieving the goals we seek, may not be enough tomorrow.
“And unfortunately, this is what appears to be happening today.”