17/06/2010 President
Speaking on 11 June at the ‘European Forum Cyprus’, a Council of Europe initiative, which is co-financed by the European Union and brings together young Cypriot leaders from all walks of life in the two communities on the island, PACE President Mevlüt Çavusoglu told participants that this initiative was essential to foster dialogue, mutual respect, confidence and co-operation between future generations of leaders of the island – a necessary condition for a peaceful and prosperous Cyprus.
“PACE has dealt with the Cyprus issue with many initiatives and resolutions. The aim has been, and remains – in line with Resolution 1628 (2008) - to find “a lasting and comprehensive solution for a peaceful and united Cyprus, which would guarantee the legitimate rights of both Greek and Turkish Cypriots, in full compliance with the values and principles of the Council of Europe,” the President added.
He also recalled that PACE was the only international assembly in which the elected representatives from both the Greek and the Turkish communities can participate. “In 2004, with Resolution 1376, the Assembly decided to associate more closely the elected representatives of the Turkish Cypriot community in the work of the Assembly and its committees, and integrate them into the Cypriot delegation. It took a lot of imagination, flexibility and political courage to devise this formula but I am convinced that dialogue is the only way forward and that we are on the right path,” he said.
“We have great expectations of you,” the PACE President encouraged participants at the end of the exchange of views and suggested that one of the next European Forum Cyprus seminars be held in Strasbourg, symbol of reconciliation among people.
The last seminar, held in Rome from 28 to 29 May focused on “Benefits, opportunities and challenges of a reunited Cyprus”.