Cyprus PIO: News Update in English, 99-03-23

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

Tuesday, 23 March 1999

CONTENTS

• [01] Passage of time entails dangers for a wider conflagration, says Clerides
• [02] New Ministers assume duties

[01] Passage of time entails dangers for a wider conflagration, says Clerides

During a live TV interview President Clerides confirmed the elaboration of US scenarios to boost efforts for a Cyprus settlement, pointing out that those would include both constitutional and security issues. President Clerides also pointed out that the solution sought by all foreign countries should be workable and involving no potential tensions.

President Clerides stressed also the overwhelming interest for a Cyprus solution displayed by major European countries which "would like to see Cyprus entering the European Union".

Replying to questions on the Cyprus problem, President Clerides stressed that the Greek Cypriot side is willing to resume bicommunal talks without setting any preconditions.

On the contrary, he pointed out, the Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash puts down preconditions in a bid to alter the basis of the UN-led negotiations. President Clerides explained that the UN Security Council Resolutions provide the framework for an agreement on the Cyprus problem. "Denktash's claims for a confederation depart from UN Security Council Resolutions on Cyprus calling for a bicommunal, bizonal federation with a single sovereignty",he said.

Referring to the island's EU accession course, President Clerides said he does not envisage any dangers that could leave out Cyprus from the EU for solely financial reasons.

President Clerides reiterated his belief that "accession course will prove to be a catalyst in Cyprus' search for a political settlement."

[02] New Ministers assume duties

New Minister of Finance, Takis Clerides took over the Ministry from Christodoulos Christodoulou, who has been appointed Minister of Interior. New Government Spokesman, Costas Serezis took over from former Spokesman Christos Stylianides.

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

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