Peace Proposals Present an Historic Opportunity for Cyprus: says Commonwealth Secretary-General

Commonwealth Secretary-General Don McKinnon has urged all parties concerned to respond positively to the proposals for a new comprehensive settlement in Cyprus.

Speaking on the eve of the United Nations deadline for the parties to indicate their acceptance of the UN proposals, Mr McKinnon said:

"These proposals represent an historic opportunity for the parties. Cyprus is a valued member of the Commonwealth family, and is well placed to become a member of the European Union. All its people would benefit from a comprehensive settlement to secure peace and economic prosperity for future generations.

"The Commonwealth has consistently reaffirmed its desire to see a settlement to this long-standing dispute, and stands ready to assist in any way we can with the good offices of the United Nations Secretary-General."




Note to Editors:

On 11 November 2002, the United Nations Secretary-General announced proposals for a comprehensive settlement in Cyprus. The deadline for preliminary responses to the proposals is 30 November 2002.