Leaders and representatives of some Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot political parties came together in the buffer zone and discussed the role of the European Union in the settlement efforts for the Cyprus problem and the harmonization of the settlement conditions with the European Union acquis.

The Democratic Party did not support the text of the joint statement read after the meeting.

Leaders and representatives of some Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot political parties participating in the bi-communal dialogue under the auspices of the Embassy of the Slovak Republic in Lefkoşa met on Wednesday at the Ledra Palace Hotel.

They expressed opinions on the topic proposed by the hosting party – Socialist Party (EDEK): “The role of the European Union in the efforts to resolve the Cyprus Issue and the compatibility of the provisions of the solution with the Acquis Communautaire.”

The representatives of the political parties expressed their views, and suggestions on the presented issue.

The Slovak Embassy sent in writing to the press the joint text, which was read out after the meeting and agreed upon by all participating parties except the Democratic Party (DP).

The text called on the two leaders and all parties involved in the Cyprus problem, including the UN Secretariat and the European Union institutions, to intensify efforts to restart negotiations to reach a comprehensive and viable solution to the Cyprus problem, based on the relevant UN resolutions, the European acquis, and the international law.

They expressed their will for the appointment of a UN Secretary General Envoy the sooner possible.

They expressed the view that the solution to the Cyprus problem should not be based on divisions, but provide for a state in which all its legitimate citizens will have and practise all human and political rights.

There should also be an adequate respect and protection of our cultural and environmental heritage throughout Cyprus.

All participants wish to be further informed by the UNSG Special Representative Mr. Colin Stewart on the present situation in the Pile area.

Democrat Party Vice Chairman and Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Salih Çeliker made a statement to the BRT regarding the reasons for their objection.

Noting that they rejected the joint text and declared to the political parties that they disagreed with it, Çeliker said that the ideas in the text did not represent them and noted that they did not agree with the proposed solution process for the Cyprus problem.

The next meeting of the leaders and representatives of the political parties will be held on Wednesday, 31 January 2024 with the United Cyprus Republican Party (ERKK) as hosting party.