Cyprus News Agency: News in English (AM), 00-04-16

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

CONTENTS

[01] DIKO President - Speech

1440:CYPPRESS:01

[01] DIKO President - Speech

In an emotional speech at a special constitutional party conference, Kyprianou said he always believed in the need for renewal in the party and pledged to assist in every way he can the new leadership of the party he founded 24 years ago.

He explained he reached his decision not to re-run for DIKO presidency long ago and that it had nothing to do with his recent health problems, adding that "conditions are now suitable to make my decision final".

Referring to the presidency of the Republic, Kyprianou said he does not intend to stand as a candidate, but noted the next candidate for the presidency should come from DIKO and expressed hope that the party would manage to secure the necessary support from other ranks as well.

Kyprianou said he intends to continue as House President until his term in office concludes, but did not disclose whether he would run for re-election to the post.

Referring to the Cyprus problem, Kyprianou noted that Turkish expansionist policy continues and that the international community does not seem determined to press Ankara to abandon its intransigent stance.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied the northern third of the island. Efforts to solve the Cyprus problem have stumbled on Turkey's intransigence.

Kyprianou pointed out that with a reviewed strategy, the Greek Cypriot side could manage to push things forward and added that DIKO will present to the National Council (top advisory body to the President of the Republic on the Cyprus problem) its positions and proposals towards this end in writing.

He also pledged to continue working for a just solution of the Cyprus problem and to contribute towards greater unity among the people of Cyprus and the political leadership, on the basis of an agreed national policy.

Concluding, Kyprianou said he was proud of everything DIKO has offered to Cyprus so far and described the period 1977-1988, when he served as President of the Republic, as "a golden period for Cyprus in every respect", adding that he was optimistic about the future of his party.

CNA MCH/RG/2000

ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY

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