I have today
written a letter to Mr. Tassos Papadopoulos, the Greek
Cypriot leader, informing him that we have for too long
overlooked the significance of the socio-psychological
dimension of the Cyprus issue, and especially the deep
crisis of confidence between the two sides. Based on this
assessment, I have suggested to him some ideas which I
believe could initiate a process of dialogue and
consultation, leading to a working relationship between
us.
The outline of
the package, which I believe could act as a catalyst for
the realisation of a mutually acceptable comprehensive
settlement, is as follows:
(i) As a first
step, the fenced area of Varosha south of Dhimoktrathias
street, including the area extending to the UN Buffer
Zone, will be transferred to the Greek Cypriot control to
be opened for resettlement.
(ii) Parallel to
this, all restrictions on overseas trade, transport,
travel and cultural and sportive activities from or to
both parts of Cyprus will be lifted. I am convinced that
Turkey and Greece will also positively respond to this by
removing the restrictions which they apply to the Greek
Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot sides respectively. We shall
invite the UN and EU to acknowledge and give effect to
these arrangements.
(iii) The freedom
of movement will be facilitated between the two sides,
subject only to minimal procedures. The restrictions on
the movement of tourists will also be lifted.
(iv) Steps will
be taken gradually for the normalisation of the flow of
goods between the two parties on the island. Cooperation
shall be also encouraged between the institutions of both
sides to identify and develop joint projects.
(v) The Turkish
Cypriot side will lift the measures regarding the movement
of UNFICYP of July 2000.
(vi) A bilateral
Reconciliation Committee will be established with the
objective of promoting understanding, tolerance and mutual
respect between the two parties. This Committee will make
specific recommendations for promoting bilateral contacts
and projects.
These ideas and
suggestions constitute an integrated whole and I am
convinced that their implementation, while greatly
enhancing the prospect of a mutually acceptable
comprehensive settlement based on the political equality
of the two sides, would bring significant tangible
benefits to both parties.
It is understood
that the acceptance and implementation of the package will
neither prejudice the respective positions of the two
sides, nor will it be a substitute to a final settlement.
I am also
prepared to discuss with the Greek Cypriot side the
subject as to how we could benefit from the assistance of
the UN and the EU in the implementation of the proposed
ideas and package.
In the context of
the above, I have also informed Mr. Tassos Papadopoulos
that I am ready to talk with him the core issues of a
comprehensive settlement, and matters related to EU
membership, with the objective of reaching a mutually
satisfactory conclusion.
Since both sides
support the good-offices mission, I have also written to
the UN Secretary-General about my ideas and suggestions.