Cyprus News Agency: News in English (AM), 99-03-18

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

CONTENTS

[01] Cook - National Federation of Great Britain

[02] Michaelides - Resignation

[03] Michaelides - Resignation - Statements

1005:CYPPRESS:01

[01] Cook - National Federation of Great Britain

Yesterday, Cook received a delegation of the National Cyprus Federation of Great Britain, which was accompanied by British MPs Joan Ryan, Andrew Dismore and Stephen Twigg.

Head of the delegation was the Federation's Chairman, Haris Sofoklides.

A Federation announcement said that Sofoklides expressed the satisfaction of overseas Cypriots regarding the stable support offered by the British Government to Cyprus' EU accession course.

Sofoklides also requested Britain's active involvement in the creation of those circumstances which would facilitate a solution to the Cyprus problem.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied the northern third of the island.

Cook said that he was satisfied with Cyprus' EU negotiations so far, and stressed that Turkey would not be able to veto the island's accession.

During the meeting, Cook and the delegation exchanged views on possible developments from the outcome of Turkish elections in April and on utilising any opportunity which may arise.

They also discussed the role that Britain, the United States and other countries can play in efforts to solve the Cyprus problem.

CNA KT/RG/MCH/1999

ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY

1100:CYPPRESS:02

[02] Michaelides - Resignation

Michaelides' resignation came two days after Government Spokesman, Christos Stylianides, announced he was resigning because he disagreed with a cabinet decision.

The cabinet had to exonerate the Interior Minister from corruption allegations against him.

Speaking on his exit from the Presidential Palace, Michaelides said that the President has accepted his resignation but ashed him to remain in office until a replacement was found.

Michaelides also said President Clerides would be responding to the resignation tomorrow, in writing.

CNA MK/RG/MCH/1999

ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY

1225:CYPPRESS:03

[03] Michaelides - Resignation - Statements

Michaelides met this morning with President Clerides, who asked him to remain at his post until a replacement is found.

Speaking after the meeting, Michaelides said that his resignation was not connected with the resignation of Government Spokesman, Christos Stylianides, two days earlier.

Stylianides had resigned "as a matter of principle" after the cabinet decided that a report on allegations that Michaelides had abused his power at the immigration department and had unlawfully become rich through the sale of apartments did not contain any evidence against the Minister.

Yesterday, Michaelides had expressed doubts about the motives behind Stylianides' resignation.

Responding to questions, Michaelides said that he expects the President to answer in writing tomorrow and said he would remain actively involved in politics.

CNA MK/RG/MCH/1999

ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY

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