Cyprus News Agency: News in English (PM), 97-02-01

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From: The Cyprus News Agency at <http://www.cyna.org.cy>

CONTENTS

[01] UN to insist on talks for Cyprus solution

[02] Clerides - Annan discussed Cyprus problem

1515:CYPPRESS:01

[01] UN to insist on talks for Cyprus solution

Annan, who was speaking at a press conference in Davos, Switzerland, also said there is a window of opportunity to solve the Cyprus issue in 1997.

According to Cyprus Radio, the UN chief said he will urge both parties in Cyprus to begin talks this year, because 1998 is expected to be more difficult.

He noted presidential elections are to be held in Cyprus next year and negotiations for Cyprus' European Union accession are also expected to begin then.

The UN chief stated he will insist in his efforts to persuade the parties to begin face-to-face talks, noting this is necessary because of a rise of tension on the island.

Replying to questions, Annan said the import of weapons should be avoided and pointed out that the UN does not encourage the build-up of arms in Cyprus, because it does not contribute in efforts to reach a settlement.

CNA RG/MA/1997

ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY

1600:CYPPRESS:02

[02] Clerides - Annan discussed Cyprus problem

Speaking after the meeting, which took place on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum, President Clerides described it as excellent and constructive.

He said they exchanged views on various aspects of the Cyprus problem, and gave emphasis on what can be done for a dialogue between the Greek and Turkish Cypriot sides to begin.

President Clerides said Annan accepted his view that talks for a solution to the Cyprus problem should be well prepared for, to ensure their success.

According to the Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation, President Clerides noted that proximity talks should start and continue, to establish whether there are prospects for face-to-face negotiations, between himself and Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash.

The President said the issue of persons missing since the Turkish invasion and occupation of part of Cyprus, in 1974, was also discussed.

He added he presented Annan with talking points on the issue and conveyed a request from the committees of the families of the missing persons for a meeting, which was accepted.

President Clerides is reported to have said the UN chief agreed and asked the Cyprus Government to get in touch with him on the issue when he returns to New York.

President Clerides returns to Cyprus tomorrow, early afternoon.

CNA RG/MA/1997

ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY

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