A wall that divides

Disappointment but also some optimism in the future: that’s the gist of the remarks of FIDIA SARIKIS , MP of the Republic of Cyprus and member of the Cypriot delegation at the Council of Europe. He also drew attention to the problems of an economy that needs to adjust to the new parameters of the EU, and of the continuing Turkish occupation of the northern zone of the island (only the Greek-Cypriot zone in the south entered the EU). But he also reaffirmed the country’s determination to pursue the necessary reforms to adjust to the EU, also with a view to the planned introduction of the Euro in 2008. Sarikis tried to sum up the pros and cons of these first three years as a member of the EU during a meeting in Nicosia with a group of journalists and diocesan delegates for ecumenism, who took part in an ecumenical pilgrimage promoted by the Brevivet tourist agency in Brescia (Italy). How do you assess these first years in Europe? “As Cypriots we are, at least for the time being, somewhat disappointed and especially so on account of the division that still remains in force in the island. Europe does not seem to have offered the hoped-for help or made any positive contribution to resolve this situation. The feeling is that Europe wants to press for a solution that would not unduly discompose those who are occupying the northern zone of Cyprus, i.e. the Turks. The wall that partitions Nicosia, the only wall of its kind that remains in a European city, tangible sign of separation, is hardly a positive thing. What divides the island, and Nicosia in particular, must give pause for thought not only to Cypriots but to everyone. Anyone who claims to be a defender of human rights, whoever he be, should come to Nicosia to see it for himself”. Would not Turkey’s possible entry into the EU facilitate a solution? “We are not favourable to Turkey’s entry into the European Union, unless there is a clear commitment on her part to respect the rules of the EU. These rules exist: they need to be respected and accepted. Before any Turkish EU accession, a fair solution to Turkey’s continuing occupation of Cyprus is needed”. The division of the island remains an open wound… “Many politicians are ignorant of the recent history of Cyprus, and I refer in particular to the Turkish invasion in 1974. There are still unresolved problems that await an answer, such as refugees, missing persons, victims of the conflict and the destruction it has caused. So far one referendum had been held on the Annan plan, in its 5th version, on 24 April 2004; this we rejected, whereas the Turkish-Cypriots, including the colonists, approved it. Now people say that it was we who did not want peace”. Perhaps these unfulfilled hopes are making Cyprus somewhat euro-sceptical? “Cypriots are not euro-sceptical, but the doubts we had are turning out to be true. Let’s take the economic problems: Cyprus is an agricultural country, but it is losing its market share as a result of EU agricultural policy. Tourism too, another important internal resource, is suffering from the increased cost of living registered since EU accession on 1st May 2004. We will see what will happen with the introduction of the euro in 2008”. Yet from the EU you also derive benefits, such as the substantial funds allocated to enlargement. So national governments are called to play their part… “Yes, to enjoy to the best the advantages we derive from the EU, we will have to play our part in respecting European parameters, and in improving the country’s structures and services. We are optimistic, not pessimistic, about the future”. Is there something Cyprus needs that reforms and policies cannot deliver? “What’s needed above all is reconciliation among our people and in this long process faiths and religions can play a particular role. Cyprus has always been a home of toleration and peaceful co-existence. Religions have the power to demolish this wall from its foundations. Something is already moving. The mufti of the Cypriot-Turkish zone is trying to restore the churches situated in his part of the island, while we for our part are willing to preserve the mosques in the Greek-Cypriot part. This is a witness of partnership and tolerance. This is an important step. Others will follow”.