SOYER ANNAN INDICATED THAT OUR PEOPLE’S THESIS AND DESIRES WERE ACKNOWLEDGED IN INTERNATIONAL FIELD

Prime Minister Ferdi Sabit Soyer stated that the UN Secretary General Kofi Annan’s remarks made after his meeting with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, his latest report submitted to the Security Council and his determination on the vision of settlement were important. Prime Minister Soyer pointed out that Annan’s words were indication that the Turkish Cypriot people’s thesis and desires were started to be acknowledged in the international field.

Soyer stressing the importance of Annan’s remarks, emphasizing his sincerity and determination on the vision of settlement, during Erdogan’s visit, reminded that Annan in his report, submitted to the Security Council for the extension of the mandate of the UNFICYP, stressed that the property issue should be taken up within the comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus issue. Soyer added that Annan’s stance was an international reaction against the policy of Papadopolous’ administration aimed at increasing the tension. Soyer said this was another sign of the legitimacy and justice of Turkish Cypriot’s views and stance.

GREEK CYPRIOTS HELD A RELIGIOUS CEREMONY AT ST. BARNABAS

Greek Cypriots held a religious ceremony on Friday and Saturday at St. Barnabas Archeological and Icon Museum in Gazi Magusa within the framework of their feast day. The ceremony was the first held after receiving permission from the TRNC’s official authorities.

The preliminary ceremony was held on June 10, 2005 with the participation of around 300 Greek Cypriots, whereas the main ceremony which was held on June 11, 2005 was attended by approximately 800 Greek Cypriots.