President of the Republic of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades pointed out on Tuesday that no one was pursuing the dissolution of the Republic but its evolution, and that Cyprus needed the determination of the leaders, unity and common action.
Referring to the economy, President Anastasiades said the messages are encouraging but pointed out that as long as there was a high percentage of unemployment, it was not possible to consider that Cyprus was nearing full recovery.
Addressing the 18th World Conference of Overseas Cypriots (POMAK-PSEKA) and the Executive Council Meeting of Young Overseas Cypriots (NEPOMAK), in Nicosia, President Anastasiades said that the government was following the work of the overseas Cypriots and noted that it was because of their struggle that Cyprus maintained its strength, because `you live in the decision making centres` and `have connections and involvement` in the political scene of the countries they live in.
He noted that he heard all those who spoke at the opening of the Conference and heard their concerns and hopes, and pointed out that it was not enough to refer to the consequences of the invasion but to continue the struggle for reunification.
He said there was a window of opportunity for a solution after Mustafa Akinci became the leader of the Turkish Cypriot community, noting that they were discussing creating the conditions for a state that would be an EU and UN member, with its international treaties still in place.
`What our homeland needs is the determination of the leaders, unity and common action`, President Anastasiades pointed out, adding that this was the first time the EU was becoming involved in efforts for a settlement.
He said this has become possible because the stance of the Turkish Cypriot side has changed, noting that the discussions were taking into consideration the feeling of insecurity on both sides, in order to restore trust in each other through a series of measures.
President Anastasiades also pointed out the necessity of maintaining good relations with friendly countries, noting that `our concern is how to strengthen this state and the struggle of the Cypriots for reunification`.
Referring to the economy, President Anastasiades said the messages are encouraging but pointed out that as long as there was a high percentage of unemployment, it was not possible to consider that Cyprus was nearing full recovery.
`The aim will be achieved when we at last manage to reduce unemployment`, he said.
CNA/RG/GCH 2015
ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY