LEFKOSA - President Rauf Denktas of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) on Wednesday sent a letter to Greek Cypriot leader Tassos Papadopoulos with new proposals of Turkish Cypriot side.
Denktas held a news conference and announced the proposal package which he presented to Papadopoulos.
TRNC Prime Minister Dervis Eroglu, State Minister for tourism Serdar Denktas, and Foreign and Defense Minister Tahsin Ertugruloglu accompanied him.
Denktas said he sent a letter to Greek Cypriot side under the light of the evaluation which they made after The Hague. Denktas said, ''I have today written a letter to Papadopoulos, the Greek Cypriot leader, informing him that we have for too long overlooked the significance of the socio-psychological dimension of the Cyprus issue, and especially the deep crisis of confidence between the two sides. Based on this assessment, I have suggested to him some ideas which I believe could initiate a process of dialogue and consultation, leading to a working relationship between us.''
Denktas said, ''the outline of the package, which I believe could act as a catalyst for the realization of a mutually acceptable comprehensive settlement is as follows:
1-As a first step, the fenced area of Maras (Varosha) south of Democracy street (Dhimoktrathias street), including the area extending to the UN Buffer Zone, will be transferred to the Greek Cypriot control to be opened for resettlement.
2-Parallel to this, all restrictions on overseas trade, transport, travel and cultural and sportive activities from or to both parts of Cyprus, will be lifted. I am convinced that Turkey and Greece will also positively respond to this by removing the restrictions which they apply to the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot sides respectively. We shall invite the UN and the EU to acknowledge and give effect to these arrangements.
3- The freedom of movement will be facilitated between the two sides, subject only to minimal procedures. The restrictions on the movement of tourists will also be lifted.
4-Steps will be taken gradually for the normalization of the flow of goods between the two parties on the island. Cooperation shall be also encouraged between the institutions of both sides and to identify and develop joint projects.
5-The Turkish Cypriot side will lift the measures regarding the movement of UNFICYP of July 2000.
6-A bilateral Reconciliation Committee will be established with the objective of promoting understanding, tolerance, and mutual respect between the two parties. This Committee will make specific recommendations for promoting bilateral contacts and projects.''
(AY-AÖ) 02.04.2003