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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 2 Oct 2003

Vol. 571 No. 3

Written Answers. - Reunification of Cyprus.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

118 Mr. O'Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the important international issue of the reunification of the island of Cyprus will be given priority attention during the upcoming EU Presidency; if his attention has been drawn to the strong interest in this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21586/03]

The accession of Cyprus to the EU on 1 May 2004 offers an historic opportunity for the achievement of a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem, based on the proposals of the UN Secretary General. I hope that this opportunity will be grasped and that it will prove possible for a united Cyprus to join the EU during Ireland's Presidency.

Following the failure of UN-sponsored negotiations in March this year, the European Council in March and in June reaffirmed the EU's strong support for a comprehensive settlement within the framework of Secretary General Kofi Annan's proposals. The Thessaloniki European Council in June noted that the accession of Cyprus is already creating favourable conditions for the two communities to reach a comprehensive settlement. It reiterated the willingness of the EU to accommodate the terms of a settlement in line with the principles on which the Union is founded.

During our EU Presidency, and in the lead up to it, the Government will encourage all sides to make the difficult compromises necessary to enable the accession of a united Cyprus. I remain convinced that a just, viable and functional settlement consistent with UN Security Council resolutions can be found in the relatively short time available. The next step should be for all parties involved, in particular Turkey and the Turkish Cypriot leadership, to affirm their support for the UN Secretary General's efforts, leading to an early resumption of talks on the basis of his proposals.
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