Cyprus News Agency: News in English (PM), 99-05-08

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

CONTENTS

[01] Kasoulides - Cyprus talks

[02] Defence Minister - S300 - Crete

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[01] Kasoulides - Cyprus talks

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a one day meeting on the economic relations between Cyprus and Greece, Kasoulides pointed out that the framework of the negotiations will be similar to previous negotiations.

However he said first there will be "proximity talks" and then the two sides will proceed with "direct talks".

The Foreign Minister expressed the view that this time, the international community will try to avoid the mistakes of the past and will not allow the talks to be consumed with "theoretical issues".

Invited to comment on statements made by UN Deputy Secretary - General, Sir Kieran Prendergast that the Cyprus problem has not been solved despite of what others believe, Kasoulides said that the Cyprus problem "can be an example for the UN to prove its superiority and importance in world affairs".

Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded and occupied 37 per cent of the island's territory.

Last month, President Glafcos Clerides announced that he expects to see a UN, US and European Union backed initiative on Cyprus at the beginning of September at the latest.

CNA FZ/EC/RM/1999

ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY

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[02] Defence Minister - S300 - Crete

Speaking from Athens, Chrysostomis said that the Russian technicians who are expected to help in the deployment of the missiles are not yet in Greece.

He also said "the site of their (the missiles) deployment has yet to be prepared, therefore the system is kept sealed until" the Russians arrive.

The Cypriot minister explained that the non-arrival of the Russian technicians is due to bureaucratic procedures.

"Greece's intention to deploy the missiles is clear", Chrysostomis assured, adding that there is nothing to indicate the contrary.

Chrysostomis is in Athens after a visit Friday the Cypriot military officials who are in Crete to help in the deployment of the missiles.

He will return to the island tomorrow evening. The government of Cyprus ordered the Russian made missile system purely for defensive purposes to counter the massive Turkish military presence in the island's Turkish occupied areas.

However, President Glafcos Clerides on December 29, 1998 announced that the missiles will not be deployed in Cyprus. A decision was taken to install the missiles in the Greek island of Crete.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded and occupied 37 per cent of the island's territory.

CNA EC/RM/1999

ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY

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