NEW TALKS IN LEFKOSA

If they still can’t agree, then the contingency written into UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan’s plan will apply: a double referendum will be held on the same day on both sides of the island, and perhaps a Cyprus Republic will be established in which both Greek and Turkish will be official languages. Thus, this vexing, tiresome problem will be solved, and Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) President Rauf Denktas will become one of the rotating presidents of a united Cyprus.

This is the optimistic scenario. This might happen during the last week in April. A year ago we missed an opportunity for better conditions. Back then the status quo threatened the nation and tried to scare it. It tried to use this issue in order to destroy the ruling power. We could start membership negotiations with the European Union early next year. Supporters of the status quo favor EU membership and will praise it constantly. They will enjoy modern civilization. We aren’t worried that the Greek Cypriots might start a quarrel; that would only lead to new negotiations. Turkish culture will shine in the midst of EU civilization.”