Press Conference by the Foreign Minister
Mr. Ioannis Kasoulides 

July 1, 2000

On Saturday, July 1 the Foreign Minister, Mr. Ioannis Kasoulides, gave a press conference following the measures taken by the Turkish Cypriot leader, Mr. Rauf Denktash, to impede the movement of UNFICYP in the occupied area. 

Mr. Kasoulides stated that all the necessary demarches were being made by the Government of Cyprus. On the same day, he met with the new UNFICYP Chief of Mission, Mr. Zbigniew Wlosowicz to whom he conveyed the position of his government. Mr. Kasoulides added, “we shall also convey to Mr. Wlosowicz certain views in writing the soonest possible, after consulting with our legal advisers. We hope and believe that the Peace-keeping Force will be able to face the situation, particularly the situation in the Strovilia area. Although there is a reduction today of the military presence there, it is nevertheless necessary to restore the status quo.” 

On Friday, June 30 the Turkish troops had moved forward from their positions into the Strovilia village area which is located between the British base of Dhekelia and the occupied area, and is also under UN supervision. 

Mr. Kasoulides also stated that it was the duty of UNFICYP to ensure a return to the status quo ante in the area as well as to ensure the security of the Greek Cypriots living in Strovilia. 

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