LEFKOSA - Turgay Avci, Foreign Minister of Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) asked Greek Cypriot FM Yiorgos Lillikas to meet in a third country.
In a statement to A.A, Avci invited the Greek Cypriot FM to meet in a country of his choice and discuss the Cyprus issue.
"Turkish Cypriots are ready to discuss every issue at the table," said FM Avci and added that he can meet with the Greek Cypriot minister in a European country. Recalling that Yiorgos Lillikas withdrew from a scheduled meeting in Helsinki during Finland`s European Union (EU) rotating presidency, Avci said he is ready to meet Greek Cypriot minister in a country of his choice.
-PROMISES BY EU-
FM Avci said TRNC wants EU to keep the promises it has made prior to April 24th, 2004. He reminded that European Council took a decision to lift isolations on Turkish Cypriots on April 26th,2004.
Noting that the implementation of direct trade regulation is threatened by Greek Cypriots, TRNC FM said the EU should not expect new steps by TRNC before carrying out its decision on April 26th.
Commenting on the the Annan Plan, Avci said he was against the plan three years ago.
"However, one cannot deny the economic developments that took place after the referendum in 2004. Foreign investments and big holdings from Turkey came to TRNC. These indicate that `yes` to Annan plan was a right decision," said Avci.
TRNC FM continued explaining positive developments in commercial and financial relations with Organization of Islamic Conference and its member states.
"TRNC opened a representative office in Qatar, and offices in Kuwait and Oman are on the way. We will open out commercially by developing relations with Gulf countries," he said.
On the other hand, commenting on opposition parties` demand for early elections, Avci said there will not be early election, and the election will be held in 2010.