§ Lord Kilclooneyasked Her Majesty's Government:
As guarantor power, what representations have they made to the Cyprus Government following their decision to take delivery to southern Cyprus of military helicopters from Russia; and whether this delivery of military equipment will facilitate the present talks between the leaders of the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. [HL3228]
17WA
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanThe Government have consistently made it clear to all parties in Cyprus that they deplore weapons acquisition, in line with UN Security Council resolutions which express concern about military build-up on the island. We do not consider such procurement to be conducive to efforts aimed at securing a just and lasting settlement in Cyprus. We have raised the issue with the Republic of Cyprus at the highest level. We have also raised the matter with EU partners.
§ Lord Kilclooneyasked Her Majesty's Government:
When they gave assurances to the Greek Cypriot leader, Glafcos Clerides, that the present phase of direct talks between the two Cypriot community leaders would be held within the framework of United Nations Security Council resolutions. [HL3229]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanThe UK has always believed that the UN settlement process, based upon UNSCR 1250, offers the best chance of achieving a just and lasting settlement in Cyprus which respects the vital interests of all concerned. Accordingly, we welcomed the decision by the two leaders in December 2001 to begin direct talks on-island in January under the auspices of the UN We support this process and continue to urge all involved to engage in the talks in a positive and constructive manner.