The UK Minister for Europe Leo Docherty has stated that “the best way to address the situation in Cyprus remains through a just and lasting settlement on the island in line with UN parameters,” thus reaffirming London’s position.
In a response letter to the Board of British Cypriots, the Minister added that “a settlement will increase the prosperity of Cyprus and strengthen the security and stability of the region.”
Docherty also mentioned that the UK actively engages with all parties on this and reminded the diaspora organisation of the agreement between the Cypriot Foreign Minister and the British Foreign Secretary to work closely together for a just and lasting solution to the Cyprus settlement process within the UN parameters.
“The UK continues to call for all sides to avoid any actions or statements that could damage the prospects for a settlement. Ultimately, it is for the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders to decide on the details of a settlement. In the meantime, the UK, as a Guarantor Power and a friend to all parties, will continue to provide support to UN efforts, including through our deployment of military personnel to the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP),” he added.
Docherty also highlighted the “immense contribution” of the Cypriot diaspora in the UK, as well as the strong bilateral relationship.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.
Source: Cyprus News Agency