The Republic of Cyprus as a Member State of the EU and the Solution of the Cyprus Problem

The Republic of Cyprus as a Member State of the EU and

the Solution of the Cyprus Problem

Α study titled “The Republic of Cyprus as a Member State of the EU and the Solution of the Cyprus Problem” was presented, at a press conference today. The study was prepared by Professor Andreas Theophanous, who headed a special working team at the Research and Development Center – Intercollege. Speaking at the press conference, Professor Theophanous focused on suggestions concerning nine aspects of the Cyprus problem that must be given particular attention in any future negotiation process. These aspects are the following:

(1) The Republic of Cyprus Remains in Existence

(2) The Treaties of Guarantee and Alliance and the Cypriot Army

(3) The Importance of the Economy and the Creation of a Modern State

(4) Bi-communality and Bi-zonality and the Three Basic Freedoms

(5) The Settlers

(6) The Powers of the Central Government, the Hierarchy of Laws and Double Majorities

(7) The Supreme Court

(8) The Efficiency of the Executive, Democracy and Popular Sovereignty

(9) The Territorial Issue

The study underlines the vital importance of the continuation of the Republic of Cyprus, the abolition of the provisions for guarantor powers and the issue of settlers in relation also to the danger of future and further demographic changes.

The philosophy of bi-communality should be considered as an integral albeit not exclusive element of the framework for a settlement. Bi-zonality, however, should not be strict, since this would be contrary to the basic freedoms and the smooth functioning of a unified economy. With a fairer territorial readjustment (72,5% - 27,5%) the cohesion of a Turkish-Cypriot state can be safeguarded, while at the same time basic principles will not be violated. In due course, if both communities wish so, they could come closer to one another in a way that would minimize the importance of zones and a functional federation could evolve.

The proposals also refer to the importance of efficiency and flexibility, so that Cyprus would be able to deal with the challenges of the European and international environment. Particular importance is also attached to the economy and social cohesion.

The decisions of the central government should take precedence while due respect should also be given to the authority of the states. At the same time, it was stressed that both federal and democratic principles would be valued. On the basis of this line of thinking, a proposal is made for the adoption of the American model for the election of a President and a Vice President on a common ticket and with a common electoral roll. The political equality of the communities is safeguarded with equal representation of the two communities in the Senate and effective participation of the Turkish Cypriots in all institutions and structures of the state.

Regarding the Supreme Court, it is suggested that it should be composed of four Greek Cypriots, four Turkish Cypriots and one representative either from the Armenian, the Maronite or the Latin community. The Court would be presided over by the oldest judge.

“The accession of the Republic of Cyprus to the EU provides the possibility of reaching a solution that would to a large extent incorporate the European acquis communautaire – an aim that is consistent with our long-held position that for the solution of the Cyprus problem, the historical compromise of federation should be coupled with European principles and norms”, Professor Theophanous pointed out. In conclusion he also stressed that “taking into account the participation of the Republic of Cyprus in the EU and the prospects for a solution of the Cyprus problem, it is of vital importance that the Cypriot people as a whole be prepared for the new era. In this context, the Turkish Cypriots should also enjoy the benefits of this new era, as well as undertake the responsibilities that these entail”.

Research & Development Center - Intercollege