Papadapulous Complains About ‘Settlements’

Papadapulous and Rehn reportedly met for two hours to discuss the TRNC elections. Papadopulous expressed concern about the increasing number of Turkish settlers and corresponding increase in the number of settlement structures on the island. He asked that the EU Commission take action against this. Papadopulous also discussed blocking financial and commercial aid by Greeks and said Turkish Cypriots are not allowed to use this money because of Turkish and TRNC leaders. He remarked that the money would be out of use by 2005 if it is not received. The Greek leader also noted that he is prepared to start Cyprus negotiations within the framework of the United Nations (UN), but demanded that the EU play a more active role.

Commission authorities did not release details of the meeting, but disclosed that an evaluation of the election results was conducted and that they exchanged ideas concerning the resumption of UN negotiations. Rehn said he will be visiting Greek Cyprus on May 13th and then be heading to the TRNC.