The President of the Republic Mr. Nikos Anastasiadis chaired today, at the Presidential Palace, a meeting of the National Council.
After the meeting, the Government Spokesman Mr. Marios Pelekanos read a statement of the National Council as follows:
"The National Council, during its session today, discussed the developments in relation to the enclosed area of Famagusta, in view of yesterday's unacceptable and illegal announcements by the Turkish side for a change in the status of part of the enclosed city of Famagusta, with a parallel wish to appeal to the so-called Commission.
The National Council was briefed by the President of the Republic and the Minister of Foreign Affairs on all the steps taken by the Republic of Cyprus, while views were exchanged and proposals were submitted by the parties for ways of further reaction which the Government will study.
The National Council reiterated its common position that the change of status of the part of the enclave of Famagusta from military to civilian use is a clear violation of the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, in particular resolutions 550 (1984) and 789 (1992). which call for the immediate transfer of the area under United Nations administration. These announcements crucially affect the prospects for the resumption of negotiations for a comprehensive settlement on the basis of United Nations resolutions on Cyprus, international law, principles and values of the European Union.
The National Council notes that Turkey's goal with the new announcements is to further advance its plans to finalize the division.
Without ignoring the principle that respect for the individual right to property is a given and that no one can prevent the exercise of this right, the National Council notes that the possibility of appealing to the so-called Commission carries serious risks in relation to Turkey's goals.
The criticality of the moments imposes solidarity and solidarity. "The National Council calls for unity in the effort to address Turkey's new dichotomous methods."