Cyprus PIO: News Update in English, 02-06-21

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

Friday, 21 June 2002

CONTENTS

• [01] President Clerides to depart today for Seville
• [02] The direct talks can produce, even at the very last moment, an agreed settlement
• [03] Statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the suicide attack in Jerusalem

[01] President Clerides to depart today for Seville

The President will make statements to the press before his departure.

[02] The direct talks can produce, even at the very last moment, an agreed settlement

In his speech, President Clerides said that he looked forward to working closely and constructively with the new Ambassador and his government for the promotion of bilateral relations.

Referring to the Cyprus problem, the President said that he believed that "the direct talks that are now in progress can produce, even at the very last moment, an agreed settlement which will lead to a lasting and viable solution of the Cyprus problem based on a bizonal, bi-communal federation and the respect of the human rights of both the Greek-Cypriot and Turkish- Cypriot communities."

"Our side is expecting from the Turkish side to show the necessary will to negotiate honestly, constructively and with vision for the future and abandon its intransigent positions and demands, so as to achieve a lasting settlement of the Cyprus problem. The solution must lie within the parameters of the United Nations resolutions, must abide with International Law and must be compatible with the acquis communautaire of the European Union," he added.

President Clerides emphasized that "Cyprus' accession to the European Union, which hopefully will take place soon, has opened a unique window of opportunity and has set in motion a new momentum to put an end to the division of the island."

"This opportunity should not be missed," he said.

For his part, the new Dominican Ambassador said that his country, inspired by the ideals of understanding and solidarity and in the framework of the rules of international coexistence, acknowledges the efforts made by the Republic of Cyprus for the prevalence of its rights and expects that Cyprus, a strong country, will be able to get though the existing conflict.

Mr Lama said he was committed to enhancing the existing bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two countries and to making every effort to increase trade and cultural exchanges.

[03] Statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the suicide attack in Jerusalem

"The Government of the Republic of Cyprus expresses its grave concern for the deteriorating situation in the Middle East. It strongly condemns yesterday morning's suicide attack on a bus in Jerusalem, which killed 19 Israeli civilians and injured around 40.

There can be no justification for such an appalling attack, which was aimed at innocent civilians. Those responsible for this suicide bombing only serve to escalate the crisis in the Middle East.

The Government of the Republic of Cyprus offers its sympathies to the families of the victims of yesterday's attack."

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

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