Cyprus Mail: Press Review in English, 97-12-09

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From: The Cyprus Mail at <http://www.cynews.com/>

Tuesday, December 9, 1997

Former partners in war of words

THE latest developments in the Diko-Disy row regarding the February elections as well as Turkey's frantic attempts to upgrade its relations with the EU are the two main issues in Monday's Greek newspapers.

Phileleftheros says that in view of this month's EU summit set to decide which countries are fit to become members in the future, hard bargaining is taking place between the EU, Turkey and Greece.

The paper says that there seems to be difference of opinion in the Turkish government as to what steps should be taken in the Cyprus issue to facilitate Turkey's acceptance by the EU as a prospective member.

On the election developments the paper says that both Diko and Disy are now engaged in a war of words following Diko's decision to back Attorney General Alecos Markides if he decides to stand in the February presidential elections.

Simerini highlights an interview by Markides in which he's quoted as having said that he agrees with President Clerides' policy and handling of the Cyprus issue.

The paper says that according to Disy sources Diko officials informed CyBC of a night meeting last week between Markides and Diko officials so that he would be filmed attending the meeting thus putting pressure on him to announce his candidacy.

Alithia chose to highlight the mayoral elections in Dhali, interpreting Nicos Nicolaou's victory as a clear message that the centre- right forces that backed him could also combine to elect the next president of the Republic.

The paper says that the victory is considered crucial as Akel and Edek who backed the other candidate had the majority in the village in the past.

Reporting on another issue the paper says that the police have arrested three women in Limassol believed to be involved in a prostitution ring.

According to the paper the police have information that high school girls are involved as well.

Agon says that Markides will probably seek a meeting with President Clerides to try to convince him to withdraw his candidacy thus clearing the way for the Attorney General to stand in the elections.

The paper says that while Clerides will not even discuss such a development Markides, in contacts with high-ranking Disy officials, has asked them to pressure Clerides to accept this solution.

Haravghi reports the Disy-Diko row in its main story, saying that Diko's press spokesman has warned Disy not to attack Diko president Spyros Kyprianou.

Meanwhile, Disy MP Demetris Syllouris has said that there is an attempt by some to fuel a row within the ranks of his party regarding the presidential elections.

© Copyright Cyprus Mail 1997

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