§ Mr. CoxTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions his Department has had with President Clerides on the subject of a demilitarisation of the Island of Cyprus; and if he will make a statement. [55616]
§ Ms QuinWe are in regular contact with President Clerides on all aspects of the situation in Cyprus, including the question of demilitarisation.
We believe that the key to assuring the security of all Cypriots is not by increases in military forces and armaments, but through a comprehensive political settlement. We recognise eventual demilitarisation as an important objective in this context.
We therefore warmly welcome the UN Secretary-General's recent announcement of a UN process for contact between the parties aimed at reducing tensions and promoting progress towards a political settlement. We strongly support this process and urge the parties to co-operated with it in a constructive and flexible manner.