Cyprus News Agency: News in English, 03-05-19

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

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[01] Iacovou satisfied with Verheugen meeting, Commissioner to visit Cyprus

[01] Iacovou satisfied with Verheugen meeting, Commissioner to visit Cyprus

2105:CYPPRESS:15

Iacovou satisfied with Verheugen meeting, Commissioner to visit Cyprus By Nicos Bellos

Brussels, May 19 (CNA) Cyprus Foreign Minister, George Iacovou, said he was very satisfied from his first official meeting with European Commission Enlargement Commissioner, Gunter Verheugen, who is expected to visit Cyprus in the next fortnight.

During the meeting, held at Verheugens office, the two exchanged views on the Cyprus problem as well as the package of measures in support of Turkish Cypriots, which will be announced next month by the European Commission.

Iacovou told Verheugen that the Republic of Cyprus is interested in a viable and functional solution, adding that it is very significant not only for Cyprus but also for the European Union that the federal state which will emerge from a solution will be able to function within the EU.

Of special significance is Verheugens statement that we must build on the initiatives of the UN Secretary-General for a Cyprus settlement.

As regards to the measures, there will be another meeting between Commission departments and the Republic of Cyprus while there are still many issues pending which will be regulated at the level of European Commission Directorates-Generals.

Verheugen said our intention is to build upon the initiatives of the UN Secretary-General, which the European Commission is supporting. I believe there is a window of opportunity by May 2004 to solve the Cyprus problem, when Cyprus will accede the EU.

However, he said that if this does not yield results, then there is time until the end of 2004 when the EU will decide when and if it will commence accession negotiations with Turkey.

Referring to the partial lifting of restrictions in the freedom of movement to and from the occupied areas, Verheugen said he discussed it with Iacovou and described it a positive development which shows the ability and will of Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots to live together in peace.

Verheugen said they agreed that he visit the island when the Commissions proposals on the Turkish Cypriots will be completed. Iacovou said the visit is scheduled to take place after 15 days, and discussions on Cyprus will continue on the island.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded and occupied 37 percent of the islands territory.

It will become a full-fledged member of the European Union in May 2004 CNA/NB/EC/2003 ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY

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