CYPRIOT PRESIDENT TO DECIDE SOLUTION STEPS AFTER MEETING TURKISH CYPRIOT LEADER

Cyprus News Agency
July 18 2008
Cyprus

Nicosia, 18 July: The president of the Republic of Cyprus, Dhimitrios
Khristofias, has said that during the meeting he will be having on
25 July with Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat they will be
reviewing the work carried out by the working groups and will decide
on future steps.

Speaking at an event on Thursday [17 July] evening President
Khristofias said the "situation now in the Cyprus problem is more
optimistic than ever despite the fact that the difficulties and
problems in efforts for a settlement have not been overcome".

The president pointed out there was still much work to be done and
"that is why we must be patient and steadfast on the principles of
a solution, showing at the same time the necessary determination
and flexibility".

"Our hope is to reach a settlement the soonest possible, which will
liberate our people and create the basis and preconditions for a
common homeland for Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots, Armenians,
Maronites and Latins," he said, adding that finding a solution is
the main aim and priority of the government.

President Khristofias said the solution should be fair, viable
and functional, terminating the Turkish occupation and settling,
and securing the reunification of the island and its people, with
respect of their human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied
its northern third.