Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:243 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position in relation to UN sponsored talks to resolve the Cyprus problem; and if Ireland can be of assistance in the search for a solution. [2165/01]
Written Answers. - Foreign Conflicts.
The Government fully supports the efforts of the United Nations to advance the process towards a political settlement in Cyprus in the current round of talks between both sides. In November 1999, Turkish-Cypriot leader Denktash agreed to take part in UN sponsored indirect talks with Cypriot President Glafeos Clerides and talks took place from 3 to 14 December. A second round was held from 31 January to 8 February 2000 and resumed in Geneva on 5 July. Following a brief adjournment from 12 to 24 July they ran until 4 August. The fourth round took place in New York from 12 September for two weeks and a fifth round took place from 1-11 November in Geneva. The UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan, personally participated in the November round of talks and is currently engaged in ongoing contacts with both sides with a view to being able to schedule a further round at an early date.
The purpose of the talks is to prepare the groundwork for comprehensive negotiations between both sides. Four core issues are on the table in the discussions – security, property rights, institutional structures and territorial boundaries. The issues are complex and highly sensitive for all parties.
The Government has been following developments in relation to the Cyprus issue with the closest attention and has urged the parties to make every effort to move the process forward. Ireland has a particular interest in a successful outcome to the talks process. We have contributed from the outset to the UN peacekeeping operation in Cyprus and currently have some 20 personnel in UNFICYP. During his recent visit to the region the Taoiseach had detailed discussions on the Cyprus issue with President Clerides and with the UN Secretary General's deputy representative for Cyprus, Mr. Wlosowicz. The Government has made clear to all the parties involved in the Cyprus issue and to the United Nations that as a member of the UN Security Council, Ireland is ready to provide every assistance possible which could be considered useful in helping to promote the search for a political solution in Cyprus.