President Barack Obama has said success is not guaranteed in the Cyprus problem negotiations, but that the possibility for a settlement exists.
In statements on Tuesday after meeting with Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras in Athens, the US President said that prospects for a Cyprus settlement are the best that they have ever been.
He added that a solution into a bizonal, bicommunal federation would create new economic opportunities for the people of the island, and be an example for the world.
“Ultimaltely this is a negotiation between Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots. The good news is you have two leaders that are committed to finding compromises,” he said.
Obama added that if the two leaders can meet, than Greece, Turkey, the US, and the international community should support an agreement in a way that can be ratified by both sides.
“I think there is a window in the next few weeks, months, where the issue can be resolved,” he said.
The US President said to this affect that there may be a period with transition mechanisms, which is estimated by both sides and will allow the communities to move forward from the status quo.
TSIPRAS: ISSUES STILL REMAIN UNRESOLVED
On his part, Tsipras has said that there is hope in the ongoing Cyprus talks.
However, he added that care needs to be taken as key issues remain unresolved still.
“The goal of the solution is to the benefit of all the Cypriot people, and that means the withdrawal of all troops and guarantees,” he said.
Asked whether pressure can be put on Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan to end the occupation of Cyprus, Tsipras said the issue is not a bilateral problem between Turkey and Greece.
He added that it is a problem regarding illegal occupation. “We give all our strength to supporting both sides, which will lead to a just and viable solution,” Tsipras said.
Tsipras said that Erdogan plays an important role, “but it is not my responsibility to pressure him.”
Cyprus’ President Nicos Anastasiades will be visiting Athens on Wednesday, in preparation for a new round of negotiations set to start in Switzerland on Sunday.
President Anastasiades and Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci had discussed the territory issue in Mont Pelerin last week, and will continue to work towards an agreement on criteria for territorial readjustment on Sunday.
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