Cyprus PIO: News Update in English, 98-03-20

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From: The Republic of Cyprus Press and Information Office Server at <http://www.pio.gov.cy/>

News Update

Friday, 20/03/98

CONTENTS

• [01] Defence Minister begins talks in Athens
• [02] Basis for intercommunal talks may change, says Cordovez

[01] Defence Minister begins talks in Athens

Mr Omirou is in the Greek capital for talks with his Greek counterpart Akis Tsohatzopoulos on the furthering of the joint defence pact and on the modernisation of the National Guard.

Speaking at the airport before his departure, Mr Omirou said that special emphasis would be placed on devising ways in which the two countries could handle possible crisis situations.

He also criticised the international community of trying to persuade the Cyprus government to abort its planned deployment of Russian anti-aircraft missiles, saying that they should instead address themselves to the Turkish side whose expansionist designs destabilise the region.

He said that while Cyprus "acknowledges the right of the US and Europe to be interested in creating and maintaining peace" in the region, Cyprus could not accept "a selective sensibility" by which Turkey's occupation of the island was ignored.

[02] Basis for intercommunal talks may change, says Cordovez

Speaking after the meeting Mr Cordovez suggested that there might be a change in both the basis of the intercommunal dialogue as well as the shape of a solution of the protracted Cyprus question.

He also reiterated his firm belief that the Cyprus problem will have to be solved by the leaders of the Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities and not outsiders.

He said the two sides were always waiting for the situation to be defined for them, when they were the ones who had to do this themselves.

He said he will decide after his talks in Cyprus whether his mandate to continue the intercommunal dialogue for a settlement will change or not.

Speaking after his meeting with the Turkish Cypriot leader, Rauf Denktash, Cordovez said he met him in order to have a better understanding of his positions.

"I wanted to have a good understanding of his positions and I have a very good understanding of his positions. I will discuss now with Mr. Clerides and will prepare my report to the Secretary General," he added.

Asked if he is trying to find common ground between the two sides the UN envoy replied: "That is my intention."

From the Republic of Cyprus Press and Information Office (PIO) Server at http://www.pio.gov.cy/

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