Stefanou discusses Cyprus solution prospects in the north

The ways in which a solution to the Cyprus problem would turn the country into a hub of lasting peace and cooperation in the region were discussed on Tuesday during meetings Akel general secretary Stefanos Stefanou had in the north.

Stefanou met with former Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci and Communal Democracy Party (TKP) leader Zeki Çeler.

In a post on social media, Akinci said they exchanged views on the Cyprus problem and discussed the prospects for the future.

In statements after his meeting with Çeler, Stefanou said they shared the same vision for a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality.

They also agreed on the need to restart negotiations for a settlement.

Stefanou said the outcome of the UN chief’s efforts over the next few weeks would determine whether negotiations could resume, adding that they should pick up from where they left off in 2017 in Crans Montana and focus on pending issues, which would lead to a strategic agreement and pave the way for a comprehensive settlement.

Akel and TKP also agreed that the two sides should be encouraged in the direction of a solution, given that there is a sense of pessimism after seven years of not moving forward.

They also said the dialogue between Greece and Turkey worked in favour of a solution.

Stefanou and Çeler both referred to the crisis in the Middle East and deplored the attacks against the Palestinians.