Cyprus PIO: News Update in English, 99-03-09

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From: The Republic of Cyprus Press and Information Office Server at <http://www.pio.gov.cy/>

Tuesday, 9 March 1999

CONTENTS

• [01] Rantzau and Clerides discuss issues related to the Cyprus problem
• [02] President Clerides expresses appreciation for the Commonwealth's support to Cyprus
• [03] Cyprus and Armenia agree to strengthen their relations
• [04] Call on Mediterranean Parliaments to promote the respect of human rights in Cyprus

[01] Rantzau and Clerides discuss issues related to the Cyprus problem

The German envoy who is currently visiting Cyprus was received by President Glafcos Clerides yesterday. In a statement to the press Mr Rantzau described the meeting, in which a number of issues related to the Cyprus problem were discussed, as most enlightening and interesting.

"I reassured President Clerides of the ongoing efforts of the German government to contribute to a solution. I also mentioned to the President that we are supporting, to the best of our abilities, the UN efforts and in particular the work of Ann Hercus," he said.

Mr Rantzau pointed out that he did not convey to the President any ideas or proposals on the Cyprus question. He also noted that he was not aware of any planned initiative on the part of the EU with regard to confidence building measures.

Replying to a question on the possibility of upgrading Turkey's candidacy for accession to the EU, the German envoy stated that this issue would have to be discussed between the member states before the Council summit in Cologne in June.

[02] President Clerides expresses appreciation for the Commonwealth's support to Cyprus

This was stated by the President of Cyprus Mr Glafcos Clerides in a message on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Commonwealth, whose special theme this year is music.

Reaffirming the dedication of the Cyprus government and people to the ideals, principles and aims of the Commonwealth, President Clerides expressed gratitude for the steady support which the Commonwealth has offered Cyprus in its efforts for a just and viable solution to the Cyprus problem, adding that he hoped this support would continue in the future.

[03] Cyprus and Armenia agree to strengthen their relations

Speaking at a press conference after talks with Armenian Foreign Minister Mr Vartan Oskanian who is currently visiting Cyprus, Mr Kasoulides described the talks as "productive

and pointed out that with Mr Oskanian they discussed bilateral relations, political and economic issues, the Cyprus question and the issue of Nagorny - Karambakh.

"We have taken a number of decisions as to how our two countries can co- operate closely in the international arena, but also in the economic and cultural fields", he said.

Mr Kasoulides explained that Cyprus and Armenia finally consented to the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Conference being held in Constantinople

as they were the only two countries objecting to that decision. This decision must be appreciated by the members of the OSCE he said, adding that "this is an example we expect to be reciprocated by Turkey".

On his part the Armenian Foreign Minister expressed satisfaction with the meeting, stressed the "common interests" the two countries have in the region and in the world, and described the Armenian community of the island as "a bridge for very strong and healthy relations" between the two countries.

Mr Oskanian also said that the two countries are working on an agreement for the avoidance of double taxation and another one in the field of health.

[04] Call on Mediterranean Parliaments to promote the respect of human rights in Cyprus

Mr Kyprianou pointed out that despite the fact that the Turkish invasion has been condemned, Turkish troops remain on the island and the UN decisions are not implemented at a time when everyone talks about a new world order.

He stressed that while everyone talks about human rights, "they shut their eyes before the ethnic cleansing in Cyprus, whereas they show a different kind of sensitivity to problems such as Kosovo and the Yugoslav crisis.

"Some powers remain indifferent to the international resolutions or try to give their own interpretations," he added.

Referring to Cyprus' efforts to join the European Union Mr Kyprianou said that Cyprus hopes that its application will act as a catalyst towards a settlement of the Cyprus problem.

From the Republic of Cyprus Press and Information Office (PIO) Server at http://www.pio.gov.cy/

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