Nicosia, 03/10/2012

EU must contribute to finding a solution to the Cyprus problem

"The GUE/NGL Group supports a solution to the Cyprus problem based on a bicommunal, bizonal federation according to the United Nations Security Council resolutions and the principles on which the EU is founded," said Gabi Zimmer, GUE/NGL President during the Group's study days in Nicosia this week.

"However, during our study days, we have heard our Cypriot comrades expressing their disappointment at the current stalemate in the negotiation process, despite President Christofias's constant efforts to find a solution firmly based on international law."

"As a Group, we call on the EU to take its responsibility to contribute to finding a solution to the Cyprus problem, this being essentially an international problem of invasion and occupation by Turkey, of violation of the principles of international and European law, the UN Charter, and the human rights and civil liberties of the Cypriot people."

"After hearing testimonies by Turkish Cypriots,  we also express our support for this struggle and our solidarity with the peace-loving forces within the Turkish Cypriot community, which continue to work in parallel for a solution to the Cyprus problem."

"On the issue of the exploratory drilling for natural gas off the coast of Cyprus, our Group denounces threats made by the Turkish government against the sovereign rights of the Republic of Cyprus. Turkey is threatening the peace process for the solution of the Cyprus problem, and endangering stability in the region,  Gabi Zimmer concluded.