Cyprus News Agency: News in English, 06-11-27

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

CONTENTS

[01] CYPRUS PRESIDENT - TAMPERE FAILURE

[02] CYPRIOT FM - EU PRESIDENCY

[01] CYPRUS PRESIDENT - TAMPERE FAILURE

The Cypriot President stressed that Turkey refused to discuss the return of Famagusta, a prerequisite set by the Cypriot government.

Unfortunately, the Turkish side has shown no positive response, just as Finnish Foreign Minister Erkki Tuomioja said, the President said, adding that the Finnish Presidency has decided that it cannot continue its initiative.

President Papadopoulos said another meeting was underway at a different level. Asked what the subject of that meeting was, the President remarked that it was a related issue concerning the regulation for direct trade with the Turkish occupied north.

Answering questions, the President of the Republic said Turkey mentioned that it would not discuss the issue of the return of Famagusta, adding that Finland raised the issue from the start.

He also said that on 6th December the European Commission will submit its suggestions for possible sanctions which are expected to be imposed on Turkey.

The Cypriot government has stressed that the precondition for the success of the Finnish EU presidency`s initiative is the return of Famagusta to its legitimate inhabitants.

Cyprus, which joined the EU in May 2004, has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third.

Turkey, a country aspiring to become an EU member state, does not recognise the Republic of Cyprus and refuses to implement the EU-Turkey Customs Union Protocol, which provides for the opening of its ports and airports to Cyprus.

[02] CYPRIOT FM - EU PRESIDENCY

In a written statement after a meeting in Tampere with Finnish Minister of Foreign Affairs Erkki Touomioja, Lillikas says that negotiations will continue with an aim at reaching the necessary unanimity among the 25 EU partners.

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