YouSaid · the spoken record

Nicos Anastasiades

lines on the record: 197
first: 2013-09-24
most recent: 2022-09-24
sittings or episodes: 10
sources: un-general-debate

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

“We also express our appreciation for the plethora of United Nations resolutions and Security Council decisions that have condemned the unacceptable status quo and the violent and ongoing division of the island, calling for its reunification and the withdrawal of occupation forces — resolutions and decisions that, unfortunately, have yet to be implemented. Following the non-renewal of actions that violated the exercise by the Republic of Cyprus of its sovereign rights within its exclusive economic zone and the change in the leadership of the Turkish Cypriot community, a window of opportunity opened, reviving our hope that the round of negotiations that resumed in May will lead to a final settlement of the Cyprus problem.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“We look forward to concrete proposals for adapting United Nations peacekeeping operations to the changing nature of conflict and for enhancing their effectiveness and their ability to promote political solutions. In that regard, we greatly welcome the 2015 review of United Nations peacebuilding operations (see 15-29431 33/51 A/70/PV.16 29/09/2015 A/70/95), and we compliment the Secretary-General for undertaking that initiative. Cyprus, through its own experience of hosting a United Nations peacekeeping force, greatly values the contribution of the United Nations to the maintenance of peace and security.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“We also support the upcoming high-level United Nations meetings aimed at resolving a number of global challenges, including the United Nations Climate Change Conference, in Paris in December; the special session on the world drug problem, in April 2016; and the United Nations Conference on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development, in Quito in November 2016. Peacekeeping constitutes one of the main pillars and accomplishments of the United Nations. However, the United Nations is not only about peacekeeping; it is also about conflict prevention and peacebuilding. Article 33 of the Charter of the United Nations provides a wide gamut of options for the peaceful settlement of issues.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Traditional security orientations have changed due to new geopolitical circumstances. Issues of peace and stability can no longer be confined to the differences between and within nations, when non-State actors such as terrorists have challenged the established international order, paving the way for religious fundamentalism, violent extremism, the forcible displacement of people and forced migration. At the same time, new global threats such as climate change and environmental degradation have also emerged, After 70 years, world leaders must once again demonstrate statesmanship and vision in order to rebuild newly broken societies and find a path to renewal. In that regard, we welcome the recently adopted resolution 69/321, on revitalization, as well as the ongoing dialogue towards enhancing the effectiveness of the Security Council.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“At the same time, foreign interventions and involvement have not produced the hoped-for results, because they have failed to take into account and understand those nations’ internal characteristics and particular sensitivities. I would like to quote a remark made by the Secretary-General at a ceremony in San Francisco on 26 June commemorating the seventieth anniversary of the adoption of the Charter. “Today, we take the idea of the United Nations for granted, but bringing it to life required huge leaps of statecraft to bridge differences.” And while we recognize how valuable and necessary the United Nations is today, we can also see that it is in need of reform and modernization to enable it to tackle today’s realities. The international order and perspectives of 1945 are not the same as those of 2015.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“It is not enough to support economic immigrants financially; we should focus our efforts on creating the political and socioeconomic conditions that can ensure that all these people do not emigrate from their countries. In view of this horrific humanitarian crisis, one might wonder if we have neglected to take the necessary measures to avert this crisis. Has our strategy been adequate? Have we failed to predict the events that have unfolded? Considering Cyprus’s proximity to the Middle East and North Africa, as well as our historical, political, social and cultural links, I am firmly convinced that the international community has failed to sufficiently appreciate those regions’ complexities.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“In order to reverse those worrying developments, therefore, we should direct our efforts so that every country and region in a conflict zone, particularly the Middle East and North Africa, can become a place in which sustainable development is a reality. That can be achieved only by tackling the root causes that have led to this unprecedented situation — that is, political instability and economic insecurity. We should address this collectively and comprehensively. It is not enough to take action against the individuals responsible for terrorist attacks; we should focus our efforts on the enablers of terrorism. It is not enough to rescue people from sinking boats; we should focus our efforts on human traffickers.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“We must therefore be vigilant, for while we are attempting to establish fundamental principles of peace, stability and sustainable development for the future, in practice we are seeing the increasing migratory flows of those who are involuntarily fleeing their homes in search of a better future. As we strive to set up noble, long-term objectives and goals, events that are currently unfolding may render them irrelevant or unattainable. When we assume that only Jordan, Turkey, Lebanon and, more recently, Europe are affected by the current refugee crisis, we fail to acknowledge that if it persists, other countries and continents will be affected as well.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Cyprus, which has been actively involved in the process since its very beginning, is proud of this achievement, since it reflects our high principles of effective multilateralism and close cooperation among the nations of the world. However, while on the one hand we have achieved the adoption of such an ambitious agenda, on the other we are also witnessing the ongoing turmoil, extremism, sectarianism, civil war and terrorism that are taking place in the Middle East, North Africa and other regions. Their effects — death, persecution, 32/51 15-29431 29/09/2015 A/70/PV.16 dispossession of property, displacement, destruction of cultural heritage and forced migration — are becoming defining features of the daily lives of those affected.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“At the same time, leaving aside the strengths and weaknesses, successes and failures of the United Nations, we should not undermine or underestimate the fact that in an interdependent world it provides the only international forum in which nations can interact, deliberate and negotiate so as to resolve not only their differences, but also pressing regional and international challenges that are not country-specific and that call the international order into question. In order to enhance its value and influence in a globalized era, the United Nations has evolved, with its recent adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (resolution 70/1). The 2030 Agenda seeks to address the needs of a developing global population through its commonly agreed 17 Goals and 169 targets.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“So far, the United Nations has succeeded in preventing another world war and has helped to end conflicts through mediation. Currently, more than 100,000 United Nations peacekeepers are deployed in 16 countries. Yet numerous armed conflicts all over the planet attest to the fact that global peace still evades us. In the area of human rights, the United Nations has undertaken inspiring initiatives, starting with the adoption in 1948 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and followed by many international agreements and treaties setting universal standards for civil, political, social and economic rights. Yet in a world challenged by poverty, hunger, child mortality and social and economic inequalities, it is evident that we have a long way to go.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“This year marks the seventieth anniversary of the creation of the United Nations, and provides us with an opportunity to take stock of the past seven decades, as well as to jointly discuss and exchange ideas on how to further improve the Organization’s effectiveness and its members’ collaboration, with the benefit of humankind always in view. In order to assess our collective efforts, we should first recall the guiding principles that led to the establishment of the United Nations in the aftermath of the death and destruction of the Second World War. The Preamble to the founding Charter of the United Nations establishes the eradication of the scourge of war and the promotion of human rights as the cornerstones of our edifice.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“It would be a serious omission if, before concluding, I did not extend the sincere gratitude of my people and my Government to the Secretary-General and the Security Council for the work of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus over the past 50 years, which constitutes a prime example of the successful role that the United Nations can play in peacekeeping. While we greatly value the benefits of peacekeeping and the role played by the United Nations to that end, we consider that it is even more important to support and empower the Organization to continue its work towards peacemaking, peacebuilding and conflict prevention, particularly with regard to new and emerging threats. On my country’s behalf, I want to assure the Assembly that we will continue to offer any help deemed necessary to achieve those noble objectives.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“My ultimate vision is to relieve all Cypriots, especially the younger generation — the future of the country — of the anachronistic burden of having to live in a divided country in which they are forcibly prevented from enjoying the freedoms that are the birthright of every citizen in the world — a burden that they are not to blame for and are entitled to see redressed. I will not deviate from pursuing that vision, as that is the duty I have undertaken towards all Cypriots. Nor will I shy away from the historic responsibility to provide a stable, peaceful and prosperous and conciliatory future in my country.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Moreover, we expect Turkey’s sincere cooperation on the humanitarian issue of missing persons, including through granting access to all areas as required and providing the necessary information that will help shed light on their fate and alleviate the pain of their relatives. Cyprus and its citizens deserve much more than a divided country. Forty years is more than enough for all of us. It is high time for all those involved to realize that the artificial complacency with regard to the status quo benefits no one. A solution would benefit all Cypriots, Turkey, our immediate region and the international community.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“We believe that that appointment at this critical juncture in the negotiation process demonstrates the United Nations’ determination to ensure that that process moves decisively forward. However, it goes without saying that what is also needed is a demonstration of a genuine will by our compatriots to negotiate in good faith and by Turkey to contribute constructively to the efforts to reach a settlement, not only in theory and rhetoric, but through practical and substantial actions. A first step towards the long-awaited demonstration of genuine political will would be the adoption of my package proposal for bold confidence-building measures that would create a win-win situation for all parties concerned, helping to build mutual understanding, confidence and good will and thereby serving as a catalyst for the ongoing negotiating process.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“At the same time, it is extremely important that the joint declaration clearly articulates that the shared, sole purpose of the negotiating process is to end the unacceptable status quo and reach a settlement that will safeguard and respect the principles upon which the European Union is founded. Following the joint declaration and intensive negotiations between the two sides, comprehensive proposals on all chapters of the Cyprus problem have been submitted. We have now reached the phase of concentrating our efforts to bridge the differences so as to pave the way towards a viable, lasting solution. I wish to take this opportunity to warmly welcome the Secretary-General’s recent appointment of his new Special Adviser, Mr. Espen Barth Eide.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“For me, there is only one plan, and that is to reach a settlement of the Cyprus problem on the basis of what has been agreed as a compromise: the evolution of the Republic of Cyprus into a bicommunal, bizonal federation with political equality, as set out in the relevant Security Council resolutions and the high- level agreements, with a single sovereignty, a single international legal personality and a single citizenship. After months of difficult negotiations, a joint declaration was agreed between the two communities on 11 February 2014, setting out the basic guidelines and principles for reaching the framework of the agreed solution, as well as the methodology of the negotiating process.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“What I would like to stress once more is my sincere commitment to working vigorously and with resolve to reach, through a constructive, in-depth and substantive dialogue, a settlement that will reunite Cyprus and its people, restore the fundamental freedoms and human rights of all its lawful citizens, relieve the island of the presence of occupying troops, ensure peaceful coexistence and socioeconomic collaboration among all its citizens, and guarantee the effectiveness and efficient functioning of Cyprus as an EU member State.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“That would boost the economies of the countries in the area. We are ready to contribute toward that cause and even to mediate to bring together neighbouring hydrocarbon-producing and hydrocarbon-consuming countries. The year 2014 marks the fortieth anniversary of the violent division of my country as a consequence of the 1974 invasion and continuing occupation by Turkey. It is not my intention to engage in a blame game, as a plethora of United Nations resolutions and Security Council decisions not only truly reflect the historic and continuing responsibilities of those who are at fault, but also condemn the unacceptable status quo and call for the reunification of Cyprus and the withdrawal of occupation forces.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“We have assumed a constructive role in upholding United Nations values and principles and are contributing to peace efforts in our region, always, of course, within our capabilities. We are at the forefront of efforts to fight terrorism, human trafficking and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and to provide humanitarian aid and facilities when deemed necessary. Only yesterday, Cyprus was instrumental in rescuing around 350 Syrian refugees from a fishing boat stranded in the Mediterranean, thus averting a great humanitarian catastrophe. The discovery of hydrocarbons in our neighbourhood has undoubtedly upgraded its strategic importance. Energy can serve as a catalyst for broader cooperation, thus contributing to peace and stability. and can be a means to strengthen regional and EU energy security and diversification.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Those include, among others, human trafficking, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and global poverty, hunger and distress, which intensify migration flows and create demographic changes and the spread of epidemic such as the recent example of Ebola. Moreover, the effects of climate change could eventually, in the distant future, turn out to be irreversible and catastrophic. Cyprus lies at the crossroads of Europe, North Africa and the Near and Middle East, a volatile region in which most conflicts take place. However, we take pride on being a member State of the European Union (EU) and in enjoying excellent relations with all our neighbours. Hence, we are considered to be an honest broker with no hidden agendas. We do realize that our geography is our destiny.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“At the same time, we strongly urge all interested stakeholders to discourage the activities of terrorist groups that oppose the Middle East peace process. Furthermore, we cannot remain indifferent to what is taking place in Ukraine and the repercussions on the relations between some of the most important and influential actors in the world arena — the United States, the Russian Federation and the European Union. We welcome the agreement reached in Minsk on 5 September, and we call for it to be honoured and fully implemented by all sides. Of course, above and beyond those regional conflicts, we should be vigilant and remind ourselves that other conventional and unconventional challenges pose existential dangers that we have yet to tackle.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“At the same time, we should not ignore that deep- rooted and long-standing conflicts possess the ability to instantly ignite regional instability, cause bloodshed and endanger the lives of thousands of innocent civilians, including children. Regrettably, such events sow the seeds of animosity and of further violence that render dialogue and negotiations more difficult to conduct and to eventually bring to success. Specifically with regard to the Middle East peace process, the right of the Israeli people to statehood should not be called into question, nor should the same right for the people of Palestine. We commend the very positive role of the Egyptian Government in mediating between the two sides.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Everything we are witnessing in Libya, Lebanon, Syria and Iraq, particularly following the emergence of Islamic State of Iraq and Syria and the perpetration of its untold atrocities, should not leave us indifferent or passive. It is our duty towards humankind and our shared values to immediately adopt a more proactive involvement, so as to save future generations from the plague of asymmetrical threats, terrorism and bald hatred. In that connection, we welcome Security Council resolution 2178 (2014), adopted last Wednesday, to decisively address the growing threat posed by the unprecedented flow of foreign terrorist fighters and the growth of facilitation networks fuelling conflicts around the world. We expect that those responsible for the shocking crimes committed in the past few weeks will be held accountable.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“A year ago, when for the very first time I addressed the Assembly (see A/68/PV.12), I conveyed my deep concern and indignation about acts that we were witnessing that undermined the sovereignty and territorial integrity of States, causing regional and global insecurity, such as terrorism, the annexation of territories via illegal use of force, religious fundamentalism and the forcible displacement of millions of peoples. Unfortunately, despite our efforts, we have to admit that during the past year we have not adequately risen to meet those challenges. It is even more worrying that their extent and impact has been intensified at the expense of human lives, individual and collective social and economic prosperity and, ultimately, regional and international peace and security.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Enhancing its role, adhering to the principles of its Charter and implementing its resolutions are a sine qua non for effectively tackling both new and long-standing threats. The upcoming seventieth anniversary of the United Nations will be a significant milestone in United Nations history. Cyprus believes that it is now the right moment to intensify our efforts and commit ourselves to move ahead through self-assessment and an all- inclusive debate so as to reach a tangible outcome that will strengthen the relevance and effectiveness of the Organization. In that connection, I would like to recall the 2005 World Summit, during which world leaders agreed to an early reform of the Security Council.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“We should always bear in mind that the United Nations was created with the aim of maintaining international peace and security, thus fostering the effective protection of the fundamental freedoms and human rights of all people, irrespective of gender, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief. For those principles at the heart of the Charter of the United Nations to be upheld, we should all realize that in an era of globalization, all Members of the Organization are bound to be affected, one way or another, by events unfolding in any country or region, although in a dissimilar magnitude and at different times. Therefore joint actions are needed, through a common understanding that despite our individual differences, the path to peace, stability and democracy can be achieved only through the United Nations.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“I wish to congratulate you, Sir, on your election as President of the General Assembly at its sixty-ninth session, and I convey my Government’s full support in the exercise of your high duties with the shared goal of promoting United Nations principles in a period of great uncertainty and instability. The General Assembly constitutes the only international forum in which all Heads of States or Governments gather together in order not only to brief international public opinion about serious issues faced by their countries, but to also deliberate on all regional and international challenges that are not country-specific and that call the international order into question.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“I am certain that all will agree that the reunification is in the interests not only of the people of Cyprus, but also of the entire international community, since a solution to the Cyprus problem will undoubtedly have a very important spillover effect on efforts to achieve a much-needed environment of stability, security and peace in our region. For our part, we are determined to rise to the challenge of this historic responsibility and do our utmost with the aim of providing a more stable, prosperous and conciliatory future in our immediate region, so that our legacy is remembered by generations to come.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“Cyprus strongly subscribes to the joint efforts in fulfilling this task. A few months ago, my country received unprecedented international attention because of the economic crisis. I am proud to say that, due to the persistence, determination and resilience of the people of Cyprus, we are rising to the challenge and will soon lead our country to the path of recovery and growth. My political vision is for Cyprus to receive international attention yet again, but this time for all the right reasons. This points to an end in the long-standing anachronistic division of my country, in line with the aspirations of our people, especially the younger generations, to coexist peacefully in a European country that fully respects their fundamental human rights and freedoms.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“New and emerging asymmetric challenges — such as climate change and natural disasters, terrorism, inequalities and the necessity for the prevalence of the rule of law, democracy and human rights — require renewed and collective commitment and an effective target-oriented post-2015 framework with poverty eradication and sustainable development at its heart. As the Secretary-General says in his report entitled “A life of dignity for all: accelerating progress towards the Millennium Development Goals and advancing the United Nations development agenda beyond 2015”, “the world’s quest for dignity, peace, prosperity, justice, sustainability and an end to poverty has reached an unprecedented moment of urgency” (A/68/202, para. 1) “and the world’s nations must unite behind a common programme to act on those aspirations” (ibid., para. 120).”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“Energy, in my opinion, should be not a source of conflict, but a catalyst for conflict resolution and regional integration. The Millennium Development Goals framework has galvanized unparalleled development efforts and guided global and national development priorities since 2000. While three of the eight Goals have been achieved prior to the final deadline, much work remains to be done ahead of 2015. With only two years left, enhanced commitment, resources and efforts are needed, as is a coordinated and integrated approach that can contribute to accelerating progress towards the achievement of all the Millennium Goals. As a small island State facing particular challenges, we understand well why the coherence of all processes leading to a single and universal post-2015 development agenda is crucial.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“We stand ready once more, if it is deemed necessary — and hopefully it will not be — to contribute in a substantive manner to any international call to provide humanitarian aid and facilities to the nationals of any third country. A recent and most encouraging development in our area is taking place in the field of energy cooperation. The very promising potential of hydrocarbon exploration in the Levantine basin requires that all countries in the region work closely together, bilaterally and regionally. Pertinent to that and a testament to our constructive role in the region is the fact that Cyprus has assumed a leading role in bringing neighbouring hydrocarbon-producing countries together, seeking opportunities not only for maritime boundary agreements, but also for joint efforts in exploring those hydrocarbon resources.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“The positive and stabilizing role that Cyprus can assume in the eastern Mediterranean — especially in the areas of combatting terrorism, fighting the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and providing humanitarian assistance —has in the past few months received extensive recognition. Keeping Cyprus peaceful and stable and maintaining its constructive regional role is a primary objective of my Government. We have proven that we are a reliable and interconnecting bridge between Europe, North Africa and the Near and Middle Easts — in terms of both perception and actions — as well as a credible and stable country that gives true credence to being a safe haven. That has been demonstrated in practice several times during periods of massive humanitarian evacuations.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“I have to clarify that such a role played by the European Union would merely supplement and complement the United Nations good offices mission in order to guarantee not only our effective and efficient participation in the European Union, through the proper implementation of the acquis communautaire, but also the restoration of the fundamental freedoms and human rights of all Cypriots. Last but not least, an important humanitarian aspect of the Cyprus problem is the issue of missing persons. We salute the progress achieved so far. The issue must be resolved as soon as possible, regardless of the developments in the negotiations.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“To that end, I consider it essential that, before the start of the negotiating process, it be clearly established that the basis and solution to be reached will adhere to the relevant United Nations resolutions, the high- level agreements and the evolving transformation of the Republic of Cyprus into a bi-zonal, bi-communal federal State with a single international personality, single sovereignty and single citizenship. Moreover, the settlement must embody our capacity as a European Union (EU) member State and fully enshrine its values and principles by enhancing the role of the EU in the negotiating process.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“I believe that the Assembly shares my assessment that this proposal, which is complementary to the negotiating process, is to the benefit of both communities and that its acceptance would provide a much-needed stimulus to the prospect of reaching a settlement. At the same time, in order to avoid entering into a new frustrating negotiating process, the time for the start of the negotiations is not as important as that they be conducted in a comprehensive manner with clear substance, aims and targets.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“The return of Famagusta, along with the evident advantage of reviving the hope of the people of Cyprus, will also provide a number of benefits. The infrastructural restoration of a city that has been uninhabited for 39 years will undoubtedly lead to the creation of new jobs in a wide variety of professional fields, providing a major boost to the economy of the country. At the same time, by working together, building mutual trust and enjoying the results of joint collaboration, Greek and Turkish Cypriots will come closer to the realization of the benefits of sharing together a prosperous future, just as we have done in the past.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“In that respect, it is my strong belief that it is of paramount significance that a dynamic impetus be launched, either before or even during the negotiating process, in order to restore the confidence of the people of Cyprus in the prospect of reaching a settlement. Such an impetus can be achieved only through the adoption of bold measures that are seen as game-changers and as creating a win-win situation, not only for both communities but also for all interested stakeholders. With that in mind, I have submitted a package proposal that, among other things, includes the return of the ghost city of Famagusta to its lawful inhabitants, under the auspices of the United Nations and in line with Security Council resolution 550 (1984).”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“Abdullah Gül, in this very Hall (see A/68/PV.5) to the 2004 proposal that, through genuine democratic procedures, was not accepted by the vast majority of Greek Cypriots for a number of substantive reasons, does not absolve Turkey from its obligations and responsibilities concerning the efforts to find a just solution and does not truly reflect the realities on the ground, as borne out by the relevant United Nations resolutions. Nonetheless, I welcome the decision of Turkey to respond positively to my proposal to hold meetings with the negotiator of the Greek Cypriot community. I hope, and at the same time expect, that this positive response will be followed by practical and substantial steps and the adoption of a constructive attitude, guided by good faith, that will contribute effectively towards reaching a settlement.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“As I have already conveyed to the Secretary- General, it is my firm belief that the current status quo is unacceptable and that its prolongation would have further negative consequences for Greek and Turkish Cypriots. Therefore, a comprehensive settlement is not only desirable, but should not be further delayed. In that respect, I wish, as a leader with a sincere vision of reuniting my country, to once more call on Turkey and our Cypriot compatriots to demonstrate the same determination and commitment and become partners in the effort for the reunification of a peaceful, secure and prosperous homeland. The reference made by the President of the Republic of Turkey, Mr.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“I will limit myself to the example of my own country, a small European country that has for almost 40 years been violently divided, despite numerous Security Council resolutions calling for its reunification and the withdrawal of the occupation forces. I take this opportunity to assure the General Assembly that, despite the current economic difficulties we are facing, I am committed to working tirelessly and with determination to reach a viable and lasting settlement so that all the communities of Cyprus may live and thrive in a modern European country that fully respects the values and principles of the United Nations and the European Union, safeguards the fundamental freedoms and human rights of all its people, and ensures their peaceful coexistence and prosperous collaboration.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“It is not my intention to cast doubt on or minimize the multidimensional contribution of the United Nations to a plethora of cases over the past seven decades. What is important is to enhance the Organization’s role and safeguard the effectiveness of its decisions, as well as its actions. Should decisions or resolutions based on international law condemning violations of human rights not be implemented or enforced, that could be seen as fostering or even rewarding arbitrariness. In that case, regional differences and conflicts could be prolonged indefinitely, serving the petty interests and expedience of their perpetrators at the expense of international law and our universal principles. I do not intend to enter into detail of what we are witnessing and experiencing every day in different parts of the world.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“These are but a few examples that bear out the need to evaluate, through collective debate and self- assessment, whether the United Nations principles, values and methods have indeed contributed to what we have all been hoping for — the maintenance of peace and security and respect for the fundamental freedoms and human rights of all people. I am not a romantic ideologist; quite the contrary, I am a pragmatic realist who acknowledges that in this imperfect world it is extremely difficult, even impossible, to expect the full and unquestioning implementation of United Nations principles and values. However, what is happening today risks overthrowing the current world order, calling into question the relevance and effectiveness of this international Organization.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“Bearing in mind the aim of promoting the fundamental United Nations principles, I would like to share my deep concern regarding what is happening in various parts of the world, threatening the sovereignty of States and regional and global stability through, among other things, acts of State violence, acts of terrorism, the infringement and calling into question of sovereign rights enjoyed by States, the annexation of territories through the illegal use of force, the production and use of weapons of mass destruction, the sponsoring and harbouring of secessionist or terrorist movements, religious fundamentalism manifested through terrorist attacks, the forcible displacement of millions of people, and hunger and distress, which intensify migration flows and create demographic changes.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)
“It is a great honour to address the General Assembly for the first time in my capacity as President of the Republic of Cyprus. While it is realistic and pragmatic to acknowledge that in an anarchic international system the political and economic leverage and might of States, or even of international organizations, are asymmetric and unequal, one should never forget the founding principles of the Charter of the Organization, which were formulated as a result of the traumatic historic experiences of two world wars.”
2013-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 68 (2013)