Stefanos Kasselakis, the newly elected president of SYRIZA-Progressive Alliance, expressed his support for resuming negotiations on the Cyprus issue where they left off in Crans Montana, during an interview with the Cyprus News Agency.
He stressed the need for confidence-building measures and the appointment of a UN envoy, affirming his party’s full support for the Republic of Cyprus in these efforts.
During his interview with the Cyprus News Agency, Stefanos Kasselakis, who is making his first visit to Cyprus since his election, stressed that any discussion on the Cyprus problem should not be based on divisive proposals.
He reiterated the Greek opposition party’s commitment to a just and viable solution, in line with UN resolutions, advocating for a bizonal, bicommunal federation without guarantees or occupying troops, benefiting both to Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots.
Kasselakis stressed the importance of putting pressure on Turkey through the EU and its partners to engage in constructive dialogue. He also stressed the importance of linking Euro-Turkish framework discussions, in particular the negotiation of a revised customs union, with the Cyprus problem.
Concerning Greek-Turkish relations, Kasselakis recognized the positive aspects of the dialogue but warned against negative developments linked to the Cyprus issue which could compromise this progress.
In response to his controversial reference to the “pseudo-state”, Kasselakis expressed regret, stating that he quickly retracted and apologized for the remark.
Explaining his choice to travel to Cyprus as his first post-election international trip, he stressed the importance of finding a just and viable solution to the Cyprus problem for the benefit of Hellenism, regional peace and Europe in its entirety.
Kasselakis highlighted SYRIZA-PS’ legacy of actively supporting the resolution of the Cyprus problem within the framework of UN resolutions and its efforts to engage with the Republic of Cyprus and the Greek diaspora in the United States .
Regarding the current challenges in Cyprus, Kasselakis stressed the need for confidence-building measures and criticized unilateral aggressive actions and statements.
On the issue of sharing decisions between Cyprus and Greece, Kasselakis stressed the importance of flexibility and cooperation between two sovereign and modern European states.
Concerning Greek-Turkish relations, he stressed the need for dialogue but stressed the importance of safeguarding sovereignty and non-demilitarization of the islands.
Kasselakis developed the term “patriotic left”, emphasizing the party’s commitment to modern and progressive policies that respond to contemporary social and political challenges, protect the environment and defend human rights, democracy and economic independence from external influences.
He concluded by emphasizing the importance of building mutually beneficial relationships with strong partners and making choices that benefit the future of the country.
