NICOSIA – In order for the Cyprus issue to be resolved unity of action, coordination and sobriety are needed, President of the Republic Demetris Christofias has said.

Addressing the 27th conference of the Christian Union, in Nicosia, on Sunday, President Christofias referred extensively to the life and work of the first President of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios.

Referring to the Cyprus issue he said that Makarios’ signature of the agreement for the solution of the Cyprus issue in the framework of a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation was historic.

All Presidents of the Republic have since followed that position, he noted, adding that the agreement for a federation constituted a painful compromise and it evidenced the great tragedy of 1974 and the crime committed against Cyprus and its people. At the same time, he added, it is also proof that Archbishop Makarios was able to make crucial decisions for the future of Cyprus in difficult times.

Today, we continue following the same course of action, believing on the basis President Makarios set out as the only way to avoid the permanent division of our country, President Christofias said.

“We continue to do everything in our power in order to create the right circumstances which will lead to a mutually acceptable solution”, he noted. He added that “at the same time we defend internationally established principles and values”. This stance, he pointed out, does not compromise our efforts for the shape of a solution, something everyone must realize, both in Cyprus and abroad.

We believe in a solution which will end occupation and illegal settlement, will reinstate and ensure human rights and basic freedoms of our people, Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots, Maronites, Armenians and Latins, he said, adding that such a solution will be on the basis of a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality as is defined in the relevant UN resolutions, which provide for a single state, a single sovereignty, a single international personality and a single citizenship.

Despite Turkey’s efforts to change the basis of a solution, the Cyprus President said, the government ensured that negotiations took place on the basis which set out by President Makarios.

He further pledged that the fight for liberation and reunification will continue, noting that the government proves on a daily basis through its positions and proposals its readiness and determination to reach a solution, in order for the entire people of Cyprus to be able to live freely in their homeland and to build a common peaceful future.

“In order to achieve this, he said, we need to have unity of action, coordination and sobriety, away from any extremism which has in the past harmed the country”, he said.

Cyprus was divided in 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. UN led talks have been underway with a view to reunite the island under a federal roof.