By Nikos Georgiou *
As much as we are tired in recent years of hearing about critical crossroads in the Cyprus issue, what is happening confirms that we are close to the last turn. Everything converges on the fact that we are giving the last battle.
After the sinking in Crans Montana in 2017, we have another chance to keep hope alive. For Famagusta and the whole of Cyprus. Activating the settlement process on the basis of the six points of the Guterres Framework, for a functioning and sustainable Bi-zonal Bicommunal Federation. Nothing less than a state with a sovereignty, a citizenship and an international personality.
It is at the negotiating table that the intentions of each of the participants will be tested before the UN Secretary General. Much will depend on Turkey's stance. The provocative statements about two states and the illegal actions in the EEZ and Varosia make the prospects ominous. At the same time, however, they emphasize the need for a solution.
For our part, in this last turn, we must keep in mind what is at stake. The dangers and unbearable consequences of division. The perpetuation of the presence of the Turkish army, the final and irreversible Turkification of 37% of the territory of Cyprus. The final loss of the refugees' property, the recognition and legalization of the perpetrators of the invasion. That we will have a hard border with Turkey, without a Peacekeeping Force on the island. The news performed in Famagusta. At the same time, the demographic change of the occupied areas will continue, while the efforts of the Turkish Cypriots to regain their property in the free areas will be intensified. More Turkish Cypriots will choose to live in the free areas, unlike the Greek Cypriot refugees, as long as the European acquis does not apply to the occupied territories. Finally, power correlations will intensify the feeling of insecurity with a negative impact on economic activity.
We do not expect, of course, a solution to the Cyprus problem in Geneva, but to find common ground.
To be the beginning of a meaningful dialogue for the solution of the Cyprus problem. In this national effort, we must support the President of the Republic. The goal of overthrowing the occupation data is national and must be kept away from party, pre-election controversies and micropolitical targets.
* DISY Famagusta District Secretary