AKEL Bulletin - N°37 September 2013

AKEL Bulletin Edited by the International Relations Department C.C. AKEL

No 37 | September 2013

Hands o Syria British bases out of Cyprus

Our people must not be dragged into an imperialist war supposedly to gain allies

AKEL on the cries for imperialist intervention in Syria Statement by AKEL C.C. Spokesperson George Loucaides 27th August 2013

AKEL considers that the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Cyprus with the positions he has expressed is preparing the ground for Cyprus’ participation in the impending war against Syria. His position that they have not decided yet (the US and Britain that is) and that when they decide they will inform us can be interpreted politically that the government is waiting for the decisions of the powerful of the earth in order to comply with their plans; plans which according to reports in the British press, include the use of the British bases in Cyprus for missile and other military attacks in Syria.

Cyprus’ involvement in a war that is evidently aiming mainly at the repositioning of forces in the region, the distribution of the natural wealth which can lead to the creation of new borders, and involve Turkey and others even more in the sharing of the spoils only causes damage to the Cypriot people but also harms the efforts to solve the Cyprus problem. The British bases in Cyprus must not be allowed to be used as a war launching pad in defiance of our people.

The announcement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the separate statements of Foreign Minister Yiannakis Casoulides contain contradictions. On the one hand, the Foreign Minister says he does not want an escalation of the violence and tension while on the other hand he does not rule out Cyprus being used in a predatory war that will massacre our entire region. Such a visible possibility will have consequences not only on the political level with regards the Cyprus problem too, but will negatively affect the economy of Cyprus. Furthermore, an attack on Syria constitutes a unilateral action in violation of International Law, since it does not appear that the UN Security Council will take such a decision. The Republic of Cyprus must oppose in the various international bodies it participates the intervention being planned and Cyprus being used in the war. Our people have suffered enough from interventions by third parties. Cyprus must be a country undertaking initiatives for peace.

AKEL believes that if our country was in any way tied to NATO it would automatically have by now been dragged into the threatened illegal intervention in Syria. This fact offers to all those who oppose both the war and Cyprus’ participation in this war the opportunity to see the issues more calmly. In the name of a misguided sense of isolation, our people cannot be dragged into an imperialist war supposedly to secure allies when Cyprus is suffering from the consequences of such a war. If the President of the Republic Mr. Anastasiades has pledged in the name of Cyprus’ application for the accession to the so-called Partnership for Peace of NATO to hand over Cyprus to serve militarism, the Cypriot people must be made aware of it and take its decisions.

The

revelations from the Edward Snowden case have come to reaffirm once more the imperialist mechanisms for surveillance of the peoples of the world aiming to serve the imperialist domination. They have also brought to light the most organized surveillance system through the main internet’s social networks and search engines that are able to collect and analyze the personal data of billions of Internet users.

>>Edward Snowden Case

These revelations have reaffirmed also the role of British military bases in Cyprus. It has been always known that the bases are used as a starting point of imperialist operations and spying in the Middle East. The new revelations have also brought to light the American involvement in the bases and their role as a place of data collection in telecommunications and internet in the Middle East. AKEL has always stood against the role of the British military bases in Cyprus. Along with the Popular Movement has fought for the total demilitarization of the island and its discharge from the imperialist interests.

d se u e ar s ru p y C in es as b sh ti Bri as spy centres in Middle East

The well known role of British Bases in Cyprus tangle our people in even greater dangers Statement of the Head of International Relations and European Affairs Department of the C.C. of AKEL, Costas Christodoulides (03.08.2013) AKEL condemns the reinforcement of spying activities in Cyprus, through the British bases, as it is revealed by the classified documents of Snowden case, which were published in Britain.

Cyprus, as it is appeared in these documents, is a (with the demand of US intelligence services) a node of Middle East for the information collection through telecommunications and internet. The wellknown role of British Bases in Cyprus and the use of our country in the frame of the wider imperialist war plans, with the economic assistance of US services, tangle Cyprus and our people in even greater dangers. The continuous use of our country as a base of spying, supporting war moves and violating private date consists an open wound for our people and for the peace in the region. In this context, is obvious that the personal data of Cypriot citizens are also under surveillance.

AKEL calls the government to proceed in demarches to the British government. To ask for clarifications and demand the ending of this “No more blood for oil” activity. British bases have no place in our homeland.

On the 27th of July, EDON (youth of AKEL) and Proodeftiki (“Progressive” Student Movement) organised an antimperialistic march outside the Police Headquarters of Dhekelia British Base, demanding the withdraw of British bases from Cyprus.

The struggle against the Memorandum of Understanding with the ESM

The

decision of the Finance Ministers of the Eurozone of the 25th of March 2013 is a historic landmark for Cyprus that marks the beginning of a new course for the economy and society of Cyprus.

The loan facility provided from Troika (ECB, EU, IMF) under the conditionality of a Memorandum of Understanding that includes a series of austerity measures and the decision to impose a haircut on deposits above 100 thousand has put a heavy burden on the people of Cyprus. Not only because this is the first time that EU has decided to use a bail-in approach meaning that people will directly recapitalize banks but also because once again EU has chosen the path of aggressive austerity and depression to face the capitalist crisis.

The implementation of Memoranda in other countries such as Greece, Portugal and Ireland has come with significant loss of sovereignty, prosperity and has intensified the social inequality and misery. The economic data clearly point a continuous recession despite cuts in labour cost, which neoliberal leaders continuously advocated that could solve the problem. Public debt faced significant increase and unemployment has risen to historical maxima, especially among young people.

Now, more than ever, we believe that unemployment and wage cuts cannot be faced in the existing Eurozone framework, since a constant difference in competitiveness between the North and the South will be perpetuated, no matter how harsh measures are taken. Also, within the EU the steps to strengthen economic governance and economic integration minimize the ability of Member States

“An alterna tive of hope ”

to follow an independent economic policy. This means that social policy will be under severe scrutiny, directly affecting low income classes.

The exit from the Euro would possibly be an equally painful option.

A new devaluated currency and additional difficulties expected to emerge. A series of technical and economical measures should be implemented in short time. The restoration of domestic currency however gives a significant perspective and potential for growth in the future.

Our Party has therefore contacted a study to examine the political and economical parameters of such a decision. The study follows an analysis of the challenges that the country will face but in no case it’s a guide on how to exit from the Euro. Such a process needs sound political leadership combined with academic and technical support, which will involve the entire state and follow a coordinated course. The most important factor will be, of course, mass public support.

AKEL

is ready to discuss any option that provides to Cyprus the opportunity to choose a different path, away from the Troika and the austerity measures imposed from the Memorandum.

We believe that this option would be a coordinated exit form Eurozone. The rulling parties consciously reject such a choice and attack AKEL as anti-European. A very well known propaganda spread all around Europe, against Communist and Workers Parties. But the same time they do that, the people is suffering.

AKEL is ready to discuss any option that provides to Cyprus the opportunity to choose a different path, away from the Troika and the austerity measures imposed from the Memorandum. We believe that this option would be a coordinated exit form Eurozone. The rulling parties consciously reject such a choice and attack AKEL as anti-European.

A very well known propaganda spread all around Europe, against Communist and Workers Parties. But the same time they do that, the people is suffering.

“Course out of euro ”

On the September 9th 2013, the government is bringing forth another set of bills in full line with the recipes of the Troika. AKEL and the Popular Movement will organize a demonstration against it.

Statement of Andros Kyprianou, General Secretary of the C.C. of AKEL, on economic developments in the European Union and the New Economic Governance Framework 05.07.2013

The implementation of the Banking Union will have further devastating consequences for Cyprus

The

dramatic developments which the Cypriot people is today experiencing are part of all that and all what the working people will suffer in all the countries of the European Union. These developments are the result of the same policies which are destroying societies, living standards, popular gains and rights, the dreams and aspirations of millions of working people and youth from one end of Europe to the other.

The estimates and warnings issued by AKEL about the policies the ruling circles of the European Union are implementing have regrettably been confirmed. Everyone should understand that it’s not an ideological obsession to say that the European Union, as it is currently operating, is serving the interests of the monopolies and banks; that the big capital of the European Union is attacking the rights of all countries and that the big European countries, headed

by Germany, are at the same time attacking the small states. Let us all understand that the creation of a Europe of democracy, progress and social progress, the Europe of the Peoples, is not only not an ideological obsession, but a demand of our times and of the peoples.

It is not enough today, which in any case is too late, to express discomfort about the behavior of the so-called partners towards Cyprus. The Eurogroup decisions regarding our country cannot be seen separately from the invasion of the International Monetary Fund in the Eurozone, the creation of the Troika and the imposition of Memoranda on Greece, Spain, Ireland, Portugal and also in other countries soon. In recent years, a number of decisions of an economic nature have been taken by the European Union which as they come into full force will take the form of an anti-peoples onslaught. The New Economic Governance Framework of the European Union signals a momentous setback for European societies and in working people’s living standards throughout Europe.

The Lisbon Treaty, which entered into force in 2009 and the New Economic Governance Framework formulated through the 2012 Intergovernmental Treaty on Stability, Coordination and Governance, the Euro Plus Pact Germany and France imposed in March 2012, the Six-Pack Legislative Acts implemented since December 2011, the European Semester and the Two-Pack Legislative Acts that will be approved soon have concentrated power with regards economic decisions in the powerful centres of the European Union.

The scope for member-states to exercise their own socio-economic policy has been completely nullified. Member states budgets are put under the control and subject to approval not only of community bodies, but also of the other member states, that is to say of the 2-3 powerful states of the European Union. Consequently, the farreaching reversal of labour relations, social security and social policy is completed in a dramatic way for the peoples. AKEL was the only party of Cyprus which voted against all these measures, both in the House of Representatives and the European Parliament.

Today the so-called Banking Union is being promoted that sets out the terms of operation, restructuring – dissolution of banks directly by the European Central Bank and the national Central Banks. The Banking Union is the lever that will drive the weakest banks under the control of the big banking monopolies. At the same time, the subjugation of the Cooperative movement entirely under the Banking Union will render the Cooperative Movement in the same fate as the rest of the banks, with all that this would mean for its existence and social role. This is about a centralization of the banking capital of enormous dimensions to the benefit of the powerful, primarily of the German monopolies. AKEL warns that the implementation of the Banking Union will have further disastrous consequences for Cyprus. We call on the Anastasiades government – especially now that it has fresh memories – to differentiate its position from all that is being promoted.

Cyprus under the Memorandum yoke

Attack

on the Cypriot people’s living standards

On

30th April the Cyprus parliament by a narrow majority voted in favour of the bill on the Memorandum and the loan

agreement of 10 billion Euros. The Members of Parliament supporting the government coalition, namely the Democratic Rally party DHSY (20), the Democratic Party DHKO (8) and the President of the European Party EVRIKO, a total of 29 MP’s, voted in favour of approving the loan agreement.

AKEL (19), the Social Democrats EDEK party (5), the Green Party (1), an independent MP and an MP of the European

This means that within two years one eighth of production will have been lost .Its becoming understood that the public debt’s sustainability is called into question since the current forecasts do not sufficiently take into account the dangers of recession and loss of revenue of the state.

In June, the increase in unemployment in Cyprus was the biggest across the whole of the EU According to Eurostat, the unemployment rate in Cyprus in June 2013 rose to 17.3% from 16.5% in May and 11.7% in June last year. In August 2013 there were 48,000 registered unemployed persons in Cyprus.

Party, a total of 27 MP’s, voted against.

The decisions of the EU, IMF and the Anastasiades government and the Memorandum, although advertised as a "success rescuing Cyprus and its banks from a disorderly default" - in reality has led to unbelievable sacrifices for our people, mass unemployment, recession, the enforced contraction of the Cypriot financial sector, severe austerity, privatizations, attacks on working people’s Provident Funds and the mass closure of SMEs. According to the admissions of the European Commission itself, which many economists and analysts consider as optimistic, GDP will fall by 8.7% in 2013 and by an additional 3.9% in 2014, that is to say a cumulative total reduction of 12.5% compared to 2012.

The privatization of the country’s three major semi-state organizations (namely the Electricity Authority of Cyprus, Cyprus Telecommunications Authority and the Cyprus Ports Authority) are being promoted, despite the fact that all three organizations are profitable generating significant resources for the state annually. In fact the selling – off of the three semi-state organizations is being promoted, since the amount demanded by the Troika from their sale is 1.4 billion Euros whilst the value of their assets amounts to 4.5 billion Euros. In addition, AKEL also stresses the dangers to the national security of a semi-occupied country that will arise from the surrender of vital services and infrastructure to foreign private monopolies.

The complete reversal of the socio-economic realities will lead to the contraction and total transformation of the Cooperative movement as promoted by the agreement reached between the Government and the Troika. The Cooperative movement offered great support to our people and the SMEs and because of its social and democratic character it acted as the counterweight to commercial banks. Now, the Cooperative movement is being put under state control (99% of the shares will be put under state control). It is being reduced and will be transformed into 18 small state-owned commercial banks and its members will lose their right to elect their own representatives who will henceforth be appointed by the government. There are also enormous concerns about the possibility of the government moving ahead with the selling-off of its shares to the private sector/individuals.

An unprecedented cut in social benefits is being planned. The family support programs for the refugees of 1974 (which had been significantly expanded for those on low incomes during the Christofias administration) are subject to drastic cuts and some of them have in essence been abolished. The right for the free use of public transport for pensioners, school pupils and students has also been abolished, whilst homes for the elderly and kindergarten stations are being led to closure.

Cuts of 100 million Euros on healthcare expenditure over the next three years are planned, despite the fact that the state will collect 150 million Euros from the imposition of charges on users of public hospitals, as well as from the contributions of civil servants to medical care. Within the framework of the education cuts, hundreds of contracted teachers are under continuous uncertainty as to whether they will continue to have a job. At the same time an attempt is underway by the government to place the country's universities under hostage by changing the rules of appointment to their Boards, as well as through the “freezing” of funds relating to Research and Student Services, whilst the requisition of the University of Cyprus’ “own resources” has also been introduced.

The measure for programs offering work experience (stage) to the

u n e m ployed with a monthly salary of 500 Euros, which the employer after the completion of the program will be entitled to keep the same salary, is also part of the Anastasiades government’s declarations for "restarting the economy". In reality, the government is introducing a "minimum wage" set at 500 Euros through the back door.

Since the beginning of July, the whole of Cyprus has by decree of the Ministry of Labour been declared a tourist area so that the tourist working time operating daily until 10 p.m and on Sundays until 9 p.m will be implemented by all the tourist shops. In other words we are talking about the full liberalization of working time which has led to an increase in working people’s unpaid hours and to the strengthening of the major stores to the detriment of small and medium enterprises. Not only has this not helped tackle unemployment, but on the contrary in the first month of the implementation of this measure, unemployment has risen by 2.43%. This measure is facing the strong opposition of the organizations of small shopkeepers, the trade union movement and AKEL and was warmly welcomed by the employers' organizations and industrialists.

Finally, an immovable property tax was imposed on all owners without exception, in contrast to AKEL’s proposal which targeted tax on big owners and fully exempted the holders of property with small value and primary residences, that is to say those making up 78% of the actual owners.

15th July1974: fascist coup of the greek junta and EOKA B against President Makarios 20th July-14 August 1974: barbaric turkish invasion

39 years since NATO’s double crime against Cyprus This year 39 years will have passed since the double crime committed by NATO against Cyprus: on 15th July 1974 the fascist coup of the junta of Athens and the Greek Cypriot EOKA B armed underground organization took place to overthrow President Makarios and subsequently on 20th July the invasion by Turkey of our island was completed in August 1974 with the occupation of 37% of the island and the de facto partition of Cyprus and its people.

The Peoples Movement of the Left of Cyprus, headed by AKEL organized a series of mass events and meetings to pay tribute to heroes and martyrs of the Cypriot people who fell in the struggle for Democracy and Freedom, to condemn the imperialist crime and to affirm the continuation of the struggle to end the occupation and reunify Cyprus so that Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots can live together in their common home in peace.These events culminated in the mass militant march of the youth organization of AKEL EDON which ended with at the big rally of 17th July 2013 in Nicosia.

“We have gathered here to declare that the people do not forget. We are here today to remind friends and enemies of our country, that Cyprus belongs to its people and to nobody else!

We are here, because as long as AKEL exists and is fighting, this battle will never stop! It will continue until Cyprus will once again flourish until full of all its beauties it will embrace all its children and with both hands!”

Andros Kyprianou, G.S. of C.C. AKEL

extracts from the speech of Andros Kyprianou, General Secretary of AKEL, at the mass event to condemn the fascist coup d’état and the Turkish invasion (17.7.2013, Nicosia) “The people do not forget who gave the orders for the brutal extermination of Cyprus and its people. For NATO, Cyprus was only useful as an “unsinkable aircraft carrier” and as a “spy base of the free world” against the Soviet Union, but also as a launching pad for the suppression of the Arab liberation movements and as a centre to control the flow of oil to the West. For this reason Cyprus had to be put under the full control of imperialism.

For this reason Makarios had to be overthrown, Turkey had to invade and divide our island. The “Ball”, “Lemnitser”, “Acheson”, “Syrous Vance” and other Plans all had the same objective: the overthrow of Makarios and to put Cyprus under their control.

The evidence about the role the US and NATO played in the tragedy of our people is massive. For example, the messages sent by the US Assistant Foreign Secretary Ball to US embassies that the Greek army has the power to “sort out and deal with Makarios” if an order from Athens is given and that perhaps Grivas could assume this responsibility. Furthermore, there is the verbal consent which the Junta of Greece welcomed as the “green light” to proceed to carry out a coup d’état in 1972 according to Panagiotakos (Note: Greek junta diplomat who served in Nicosia); the intervention of the NATO Secretary-General Joseph Luns in the 1973 crisis inside the Cyprus Church in favor of three pro-fascist leading Church figures; the confirmation given by Bonanos (Note: Greek junta General, a leading protagonist of the betrayal of 1974) in a meeting just

a few days before the coup that "we have been given assurances”; the "sympathy and understanding" expressed by the U.S. Assistant Secretary to the Turkish ambassador in August 1974.

AKEL resisted, along with other democratic forces, with heroism and selflessness the wave of destruction. We formed a popular, anti-fascist, anti-imperialist and democratic front of struggle around President Makarios. We stood at the forefront of the struggle for the defense of democracy, the dignity and freedom of our people. Thousands of cadres and members of AKEL and the People’s Movement of the Left fought heroically and selflessly, rushing to the battle front to defend democracy and the territorial integrity of our homeland.

Palazarou, Kestas, Kourtellos, Mishaouli, Constantinou, Mattheou, Kombos, Evagoras, Ioannidis, Nicolettis, Efthimiou, Kaouris, Ttooulou, Apostolou, Socrates, Karasamanis…So many other comrades whose sacrifice watered the struggle for the vindication of Cyprus. Today our duty is to prove that these sacrifices were not in vain. This will be achieved by remaining faithful to the struggle for the liberation and reunification of our country and people; by remaining consistent to our struggle for a free, independent, federal, demilitarized Cyprus, without foreign troops trampling on its rights and bases enslaving us.”

extracts from the speech of Christos Alekou, Organisational Secretary of the C.C. of AKEL to the mass event in Memory and Honour of the Four Heroes of the working class neighborhood of Ayi Gianni in Larnaca "The news of the fascist coup caused the uprising of the democratic people of Larnaca.

Any other response was out of the question.

There could only be one reply: Resistance so that fascism will not pass! People spontaneously gathered in squares and in prominent points of the city. Demonstrations are organized. The people ask for weapons to resist the coup. In the city’s police station and elsewhere armed battles break out. The members of AKEL and EDON are among the front line of resistance. The message that Makarios is alive rejuvenates morale and strengthens the decision for resistance.

Brave youth jump into cars and convey to all corners of the city the news that President Makarios is alive, that the resistance is continuing all over Cyprus.

Adamou X'' Stefanis and the members of EDON George Charalambous, Achilles Kourtellas and 14 year old Andreas Theodosiou fell dead defending Democracy and the Republic. Other fellow comrades were wounded and subsequently persecuted and hounded by the fascists even though they were injured.

The coupists however were lurking. They organize ambushes as they used to do all through the turbulent years of EOKA B terrorism. When the cars with democratic youth enter the Acropolis square they came under intense fire. The members of AKEL George

The lives of the four Heroes and Martyrs of Ayi Gianni were cut short so early and tragically. Their blood however, as the blood of so many other resistance fighters who fell, watered the tree of freedom and democracy.�

The Central Committee of AKEL, during its session today, discussed the Cyprus problem within the context of the new given international, regional and domestic situation.

Fully aware of the dangers looming due to the unprecedented and extremely unfavorable situation we face, we do not get disorientated and remain consistent to the goal for a solution of the Cyprus problem based on the resolutions of the UN Security Council and the High-Level Agreements. The partitionist status quo is unacceptable and dangerous.

The solution of our political problem based on principles will bring many political and economic benefits to our people as a whole and will create conditions of security, stability and prosperity.

Statement of the C.C. of AKEL on the Cyprus Problem 21st of June 2013

The bi-zonal bi-communal federal solution with political equality of the two communities as defined in the resolutions of the UN Security Council must be based on the principles of International and European Law and safeguard the single sovereignty, single international personality and the single citizenship of the united Republic of Cyprus, fully demilitarised, with the withdrawal of the settlers and safeguarding of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the right of the refugees for the return to their homes and properties.

AKEL believes that in today´s difficult conditions the best and most effective way to address the dangers ahead is to remain consistent to the agreed framework of the solution and to the convergences as our side perceives them. The Downer document proves that the so-called supposedly "generous concessions" of our side simply do not exist.

AKEL will not involve the Cyprus problem in petty-party and petty-political considerations and expediencies and declares its willingness to back President Anastasiades in the efforts for a solution, provided of course that there will be the necessary collectivity, as well as adherence to the agreed negotiation basis and a solution of our political problem based on principles.

28th July 2013: Voting in the occupied areas of Cyprus

A

voting for the election of the representatives of the socalled Parliament of the occupied north of Cyprus was held on the 28th of July. Since 1983, when the inauguration of the pseudostate “TRNC” by Turkey and the nationalist leadership of the Turkishcypriot community took place in the occupied north of Cyprus, voting procedures are held for the election of the representatives of the pseudostate’s “institutions”. These procedures as well the pseudostate are not recognized as a state’s elections by any country in the world but Turkey that is directly involved in the political-economic status-quo of the turkishcypriot community after its invasion in the island in 1974. Nevertheless, these voting procedures elect the representatives of the Turkishcypriot community which play a significant role in the efforts for a solution in the Cyprus Problem and the political developments in the island as a whole.

In these voting procedures participate political Parties of a wide range of ideologies and political stands – from extreme right totally in favor of a two-states solution in the Cyprus Problem up to progressive parties that are critical in the whole status-quo and favor a reunified federal Cyprus.

It must be noted also that the pseudostate is based in a mixed presidential-parliamentary political system. Thus, the so-called “parliamentary elections” although they form a government, they don’t

elect the leader of the state. The leader is elected in the “presidential elections”. The “president” is also the representative of the turkishcypriot community in the international community and the bilateral talks between the two communities for a solution to the Cyprus Problem.

The last voting brought CTP in the first position that used to be in the opposition since recently. The victory of CTP was an outcome of several factors. Firstly, they have gained from the political cost of the previous-ruling party right wing UBP which suffered from an internal discord and a depreciated ruling guided by Turkey’s neoliberal policies in the economic and social field. Secondly, they have gained from a clear opposition to the neoliberal program imposed by Turkey and the growing threat of the assimilation of the Turkishcypriots by the Turkish settlers and the further growing economic-political involvement of Turkey in the Turkishcypriot society and economy.

The 38.4% of CTP brought it in the first place but it is not able to form a government on its own. It is still in an effort of forming a coalition government. At the moment it failed to do it so with the DP-UG but it is not aiming to have a coalition with the UBP. BKP that ran the elections in a coalition with other progressive forces did not manage to enter the Parliament although it managed to double its percentage.

BKP(United Cyprus Party) Marxist-Leninist Party founded by Ozger Ozgur after he left CTP. Clear stance against Turkey’s role in Cyprus and especially the colonisation of northern Cyprus. Supports federal solution and demilitarisation of Cyprus. Fraternal relations with AKEL.

TDP (Communal Democracy Party) Socialdemocratic Party with progressive positions in the Cyprus Problem.

DP(Democratic Party) Nationalist centre-right. In favor of a confederation solution in the Cyprus Problem but more critical on Turkey’s role in Cyprus. Tradition of coalitions with both UBP and CTP. UBP (National Unity Party) Nationalist right wing founded by the historical former leader of the Turkishcypriots Raouf Denktash.

Supports a confederation and hard partition lines for the future of the two communities. Favours unity and close relations with Turkey in every domain.

CTP(Republican Turkish Party) former Marxist-leninist Party Since the 90’s it moved to a socialdemocratic approach that also led to a step-back to its principled positions on basic aspects of Cyprus Problem (settlers, demilitarisation, guarantees). Affiliated now with International Socialist and European Socialist Party.

Nevertheless, the relations of CTP with AKEL have always been intensive based on the common will for an independent, federal and peacefull Cyprus.

On behalf of the Central Committee of AKEL, I address a warm greeting to the 3rd Congress of the United Cyprus Party (BKP) and wish every success in its deliberations.

Since its foundation in 2002 BKP has established itself in the minds not only of the progressive Turkish Cypriots, but also of the progressive Greek Cypriots, as a genuine Cypriot voice, as a bastion of struggle that is fighting for the rights of Cyprus and our people as a whole. BKP is also a bastion of struggle fighting for the identity and dignity of the Turkish Cypriots.

Speech of Yiannakis Colokasides, member of the Political Bureau of AKEL, at the 3rd Congress of the Turkish Cypriot

United Cyprus Party (BKP)

The 3rd Congress of your Party is convening at a time of important developments in Cyprus, the Eastern Mediterranean and the world. We are following closely the developments in your community and wish the upcoming vote will strengthen the forces that sincerely want and are struggling for a federal solution of the Cyprus problem and defending the interests of the Turkish Cypriot workers. The popular uprising in Turkey against the governments arbitrariness, as well as the mass mobilisations in Greece on the occasion of the closure of the Public Broadcasting Station ERT demonstrate that the peoples do not compromise, on the contrary they are fighting against those anti-peoples policies which the local ruling class and the big international capital are trying to impose on them. We are in solidarity with the peoples of Turkey and Greece. International solidarity is a powerful weapon of resistance in the hands of the people against imperialism.

The clouds of war are gathering dangerously in our neighbourhood. The only principled position towards the threat of war is the determined defence of peace from the imperialist aggressions and the defence of the right of the peoples to decide and choose their own future.

Unavoidably our attention at this moment turns to the crisis and the policies the European Union is trying to impose on us and which are leading the people to destitution and poverty. We are escalating our resistance to these policies that are also being supported by domestic capital. Of course this does not mean that we must put the Cyprus problem and its solution as a secondary priority. The Cyprus problem continues to be the main problem that concerns us. The crisis sooner or later will pass. The need however for a solution of the Cyprus problem will always remain timely because only a correct solution of the Cyprus problem can be the basis for a lasting peace and bring prosperity to our people.

The well-known imperialist circles abroad, as well as the leadership of Turkey, believe that by exploiting the crisis they will impose on us an unacceptable and anti-Cypriot solution that will perpetuate the current partitionist situation. As progressive people in both communities we must combat, disclose and fight so that these plans will not pass.

There is of course another school of thought. It is the school of thought that has never accepted the solution of federation and which wants to raise obstacles to any attempts to achieve a bi-zonal bi-communal federal solution. The duty of all progressive Cypriots is to combat this destructive policy and work for a solution that will reunify our country and people based on the resolutions of the United Nations, based on the a bi-zonal bi-communal federation with political equality.

With these thoughts we once again wish every success to your Congress. Anything that strengthens and enhances BKP, simultaneously strengthens the struggle of the progressive forces of the Turkish Cypriots, and enhances the struggle of the progressive forces of the whole of Cyprus.

>> Meeting of the Left Group in the European Parliament and AKEL on the demographic alteration and environmental degradation of the Karpasia peninsula

The oc cu pa ti on and co lo ni za ti on are also threatening the envi ro n m en t

The

Karpasia peninsula is an area rich in biological and environmental diversity and is one of four major ecological regions across Cyprus. In recent years, Turkey and Erdogan, for geopolitical reasons, have intensified the process of altering the demographic structure of the occupied areas of Cyprus through its colonization policy. At the same time, colonization is facilitating the investment activity of Turkey’s big capital in the Karpasia peninsula.

AKEL highlights the political dimension of demographic alteration of the occupied areas of Cyprus through the Turkish colonization, but also its environmental aspect. This is an issue that concerns all Cypriots, Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots. In this context, the AKEL Delegation in the GUE / NGL Group and the Confederal Group of GUE / NGL in the European Parliament organized on 1st June 2013, an event entitled "The demographic alteration and the environmental degradation of the Karpasia peninsula - the European Dimension". Speakers included cadres of AKEL, a representative of the Turkish Cypriots, the environmental movement, as well as GUE/NGL MEP, Kartika Liotard.

Neoklis Silikiotis, member of the Political Bureau of the C.C. of AKEL, who in his introductory speech stated that since 2007 and onwards, there is a continuous eort from the given Turkish

Cypriot leaderships to create the necessary infrastructures to make the Karpasia area into another tourist zone, thus jeopardizing the historical and cultural structure of Karpasia peninsula.

The reckless and illegal development in the Karpasia Peninsula is undermining the ecosystem and cultural and historic environment of the region. It is drastically changing the demographic structure and imposing barriers to a lasting and sustainable, just under the circumstances solution of the Cyprus problem. As such, it must be annulled for our common interest. The need for collective action, together with our Turkish Cypriot compatriots, to address not only environmental, but also socio-economic problems is today more pressing than ever before. He urged the EU to show real sensitivity with regards the change of the demographic situation in the occupied territories. The environmental degradation and destruction in the Karpasia peninsula, is a political and economic tool of the ruling class in Turkey, which through the Islamic big capital, is consolidating this illegal situation.

Adamos Adamou, AKEL-Left-New Forces MP and Chairman of the Environment Committee of the House of Representatives, noted in principle that the Karpasia peninsula is the only Mediterranean ecosystem with a global significance. Among the examples, he said, are the 12,500 native plants, several million migratory birds, rare turtles, seals and waterfowl.

The area is also a precious cultural heritage. In recent years

we have all witnessed an intense effort for investment and growth in the region, which undoubtedly threatens the entire ecosystem. "An area which falls within the Special Protection Area cannot be destroyed, its land sold off for the functioning of branches of Turkish universities and Turkish football clubs and in addition the construction of new hotels and roads planned, instead of sustainable development projects in Karpasia community being promoted."

Kartika Liotart, Vice President of GUE/NGL Group, and member of the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety of the European Parliament, in her speech on "European policies on the environment and the privatization of natural resources," said that a "NATURA 2000 " area provides goods and ecosystem services, for example the creation of jobs for the preparation and maintenance of the ecosystem, eco-tourism and recreation (direct and indirect employment). The comprehensive study "The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity" is a very big project that highlights that a sustainable management of natural resources is a key element in achieving the goals for the reduction of poverty, as reflected in the Millennium Development Goals. In short, the prudent management of ecosystems and the protection of biodiversity can help to reduce poverty. Finally, she stressed the support of GUE / NGL in the fight Cypriots, Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, for liberation and reunification of the island.

Petros Pashias, President of the Federation of Environmental Organizations of Cyprus, stated that the Federation considers the continuing ecological destruction as our country’s number one environmental problem, along with the illegal Turkish invasion and continuing occupation, resulting in the violent uprooting of people from their natural space and all the other effects. "We consider as solely responsible for the destruction taking place in recent years in Karpasia peninsula the ruling political forces in Turkey, and the illegal regime subordinate to them which have imposed in the occupied territories of the Republic." Furthermore, he called on all the environmental organizations of the island to cooperate for the preparation of a Strategic Management Plan of the Karpasia Peninsula, in order to set out the conditions and terms that will lead to the protection of this sensitive area.

Abdullah Korkmazhan, Member of the Political Bureau of the Turkish Cypriot “United Cyprus Party "(BKP), stressed that the alteration of the demographic structure and the destruction of the environment of the Karpasia Peninsula, are the most important aspects of the policies pursued aiming at the colonization of the north of Cyprus. One of the biggest problems faced by Turkish Cypriots, he said, is the danger of the very extinction of our community, as a result of the systematic policy of the transfer of population. This policy, implemented since 1974 and which has become even more noticeable from 2000 onwards, is part of the policy of colonization of the northern part of Cyprus, aiming at its assimilation to Turkey. This policy is the same policy implemented by Israel which is constructing settlements in the Palestinian territories and placing settlers in these settlements. In addition, he cited evidence of these developments, noting that the colonization in the north of Cyprus and the policy of systematic assimilation applied to Turkish Cypriots constitutes a war crime.

Regarding the Karpasia peninsula, he said that what is happening can be summed up in the phrase "Capitalism cuts the tree of which it can’t sell the shadow." This short phrase describes the relationship capitalism has with the environment. The ecological disaster in the Karpasia peninsula can be explained only by the illogical nature of the capitalist system: "profit, more profit, at any cost." To prevent the disaster in the Karpasia peninsula, we must rally all our forces. We must also intensify our efforts to solve the Cyprus problem. The time that passes without a solution, works against the whole of Cyprus and Cypriots themselves.

The foreign policy of the government, DISY party and Anastasiades

The

election of Nikos Anastasiades to the Presidency of the Republic of Cyprus apart from representing an all-out attack on working people’s living standards also signaled a radical pro-NATO reorientation in Cyprus’ foreign policy. Since last February, the ruling party of Cyprus is the Democratic Rally party (DISY) which expresses the interests of the big bourgeoisie of the Greek Cypriot community and also integrates a large part of the Greek Cypriot extreme right-wing. Ideological and politically DISY is a classic neoliberal right-wing party, a member of the European People's Party EPP, which has always supported Cyprus’ alignment with NATO and especially with the US and Britain.

It is the only force in Cyprus that does not condemn - even verbally - the role of NATO, the US and Britain in the creation and perpetuation of the Cyprus problem, in the preparation and planning of the fascist coup d’état and the Turkish invasion of 1974. Indirectly - and sometimes openly – they argue that the 1974 Cyprus tragedy could have been avoided had Archbishop Makarios and AKEL accepted a form of a NATO solution to the island. Furthermore, they hide the fact that Western imperialism is fostering Turkey’s intransigence to date regarding the efforts to solve the Cyprus problem.

It is characteristic that the Democratic Rally party has persistently supported all initiatives and plans coming from the Americans and the British. During the period 1993-2003 when the Democratic Rally was again in power under President Glafkos Clerides, it followed a subservient and obedient policy towards the US and Britain supposedly in order to gain their favor for the solution of the Cyprus problem. That policy of compliance and concessions to US pressure led to the sidelining of the UN Resolutions on Cyprus and the elaboration of the Annan Plan, which was far from adhering to the correct principles for the solution of the Cyprus problem and International Law. The Plan was rejected in 2004 by 76% of the Greek Cypriots, among them two thirds of the voters of the Democratic Rally party itself.

During the Christofias administration the DISY party strongly criticized AKEL and the former President of "ideological rigidity" with regards foreign policy, whilst simultaneously exerting pressure for the need to approach NATO, the US and for Cyprus’ full alignment with the prevailing policies of the EU. DISY party was pushing fiercely so that an application for Cyprus’ membership in the NATO "Partnership for Peace" be submitted, securing the support of all the other main parties except AKEL. It criticized the previous government that because of the position it upheld on the issues of Syria and Libya, it was transforming Cyprus into a "red sheep" of the EU. It reacted with anti-communist hysteria to the previous government's decision to open an embassy in Cuba, as well as to the meetings of former President Demetris Christofias with the leaders of Cuba and Venezuela. It repeatedly resented the development of closer relations with Russia and China, as well as the principled position supported by Cyprus concerning the Middle East problem and Cyprus’ solidarity with the Palestinian people.

Finally, it exerted pressure for evolving the economic-energy cooperation with Israel into an all-round all-encompassing military alliance.

During the February 2013 presidential elections, various USNATO circles, as well as Germany, openly expressed their support of Anastasiades. These are the very same circles targeting the huge gas deposits recently discovered in the Exclusive Eco-

nomic Zone of Cyprus and consider that Cyprus’ dramatic economic situation is an opportunity for them to impose their plans. In recent months we had a wave of "recommendations" by officials of NATO, EU, USA and of course the Turkish leadership talking about connecting the solution of the Cyprus problem with the utilization of the natural gas. In essence they are referring to a “package” solution that will include the shackling of Cyprus in NATO, a solution of confederation of the Cyprus problem (that is to say, a covert partition of the island) and an unspecified status of "co-exploitation" of the Cypriot natural gas with Turkey.

All these forces consider Anastasiades’ election as their opportunity to promote these geopolitical objectives. Besides, Anastasiades is the only Greek Cypriot politician who expressed the position for a solution of the Cyprus problem through a "loose federation" and for a "regulation" of the rights of intervention which Greece, Turkey and Britain have over Cyprus (according to the 1959 Agreement for the island's independence) instead of their abolition. It is therefore not a surprise that former NATO Secretary General Javier Solana in a recent article characterized the election of Anastasiades as an "opportunity" to solve the Cyprus problem and impose a "new business model in Cyprus."

From the very first day of his election, Anastasiades proclaimed as his first goal the "reorientation of the foreign policy of Cyprus”, Cyprus’ accession to the NATO programme "Partner-

ship for Peace» and the forging of relationships with NATO, with the ultimate aim of joining it. Within the framework of this pro-imperialist orientation, Anastasiades - during his visit to Israel - declared Cyprus as “Israel’s most reliable neighbour", something which apart from making assurances towards the Netanyahu government also conveys messages to the Arab world. At the same time, the Anastasiades, Samara and Netanyahu governments are promoting an enhanced military alliance of Cyprus-Greece-Israel within the context of the so-called energy security. The statements of the government spokesman of Cyprus for the necessity of Cyprus participating in the "front against Iran which is the main enemy of the West", as well as the approval given by the Cypriot Foreign Affairs Minister at the EU Foreign Affairs Council to lift the arms embargo on the anti-regime rebels of Syria must be seen within this framework.

We therefore must not be struck by the statement of the U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus that "the government of President Anastasiades is more committed to a closer cooperation with the US than any other previous government, a fact which makes Cyprus a more powerful partner of the US.”

“Cyprus delivered into the NATO tentacles” As AKEL had foreseen, the new President of Republic of Cyprus, leader of the Cypriot Right Nicos Anastasiades announced on the first day of his election that his primary goal will be Cyprus´ application to join the NATO programme "Partnership for Peace" while in his first speech to the Cypriot parliament he stated that he aims to "build relationships with NATO’’.

Meeting of Communist and Workers' Parties of the region of the eastern Mediterranean, Red Sea and Gulf, in Athens 25th June, 2013

For the right of peoples to choose the path of development of their country against imperialist war and capitalist exploitation extracts from the speech of Christos Alecou, member of the Political Bureau of the C.C. of AKEL

On

behalf of the Central Committee of AKEL we thank KKE for the invitation to participate in today's meeting. At the same time we congratulate KKE for initiatives - such as the current – it is undertaking and for its general activity on the front of anti-imperialist, internationalist solidarity. We also welcome its pioneering action in the workers popular struggles in Greece, the most recent example its resistance to the closure of the country’s public broadcasting corporation. With the same fervor we welcome the popular movements in Turkey and Egypt who are experiencing the brutal repression of the ruling bourgeois governments.

The developments in the Eastern Mediterranean region render the qualitative improvement of the coordination, joint action and further elaboration of common positions between the Communist and Workers' Parties imperative, particularly in our region..

Our meeting is taking place at a time when the imperialist aggression in Syria is escalating. The dead have surpassed 93,000. The refugees are estimated at hundreds of thousands. The imperialists are throwing oil on the fire. It is clear that there is a plan for foreign military intervention in Syria that will probably spread to Lebanon and possibly the entire region. Besides, Western imperialists real target is the intervention in Iran and control of its rich productive resources.

We express our solidarity with the people of Syria and Iran and join our voice with the peace-loving anti-imperialist forces in our region.

We defend the territorial integrity, unity and sovereignty of Syria.

AKEL has already organized in Nicosia a mass mobilization, involv-

ing Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots in order to inform our people about the dangers of the imperialist’s policy and to condemn the plans for a new war and intervention in our area.

The imperialists will not disclose their aspirations openly. For this, they either exploit real problems to ferment existing problems or invent pretexts. The so-called "transition to democracy", "Iran's nuclear program" and “the use of chemicals by the Assad regime" is the rhetoric covering the imperialist designs. However, no special effort is needed to refute these pretexts. First, because the biggest nuclear threat in the region comes from Israel. However the US, NATO and the EU remain silent as this concerns an ally of theirs.

Second, because despotic and autocratic regimes such as those of Ben Ali in Tunisia, Mubarak in Egypt and the Gulf monarchies had or have very strong ties with the Western imperialist centres.

In saying this, we do not identify with regimes like those of Gaddafi in Libya and Iran. Furthermore, we share the democratic and labour demands projected by the communists and progressive forces of Syria in relation to the internal governance of their country. More generally, we are on the side of the Communists, progressive and anti-imperialist forces in these countries fighting for popular and labor rights, for political and trade union freedoms and the release of political prisoners, for democracy and socialism. At the same time however, these forces - correctly and patriotically – do not accept the exploitation and growth of these issues by the imperialists so as to legitimize foreign intervention in their country because the struggle for democracy and popular sovereignty of each country is a matter of the people themselves; because

each people (and only the people) have the absolute right to choose its country’s own path of social and economic development. And the Communists are defending this right for every people. Towards this end, the Communist Parties of Syria have our full solidarity.

We express the same solidarity also towards the Tudeh Party of Iran and support its struggle to end the anti-communist persecutions and that its operation is legalized.

The Communists are in a position to disclose the class interests behind the developments, because they rely on an objective-dialectical analysis of reality. The Eastern Mediterranean has a huge energy wealth. At the same time it is a critical point for the flow of raw materials and trade. It is therefore precious for the major capitalist centres of the world and for the ruling classes of the countries in the region. Ultimately, all these represent the interests of the energy giants and business monopolies.

The main objective of these centres is to safeguard the flow of materials, energy and products from the region, ensuring their access to energy sources and new deposits in the eastern Mediterranean and the "modernization" of the bourgeois regimes in the region, so that they are a basis for the activity of the monopoly groups. That was the meaning of the European Security Strategy of 2003 that talked about "promoting a web of well-administered states east of the EU and the Mediterranean coastline, with whom we can enjoy relations of close cooperation."

This is the area where imperialist contradictions, compromises between them, temporary or permanent alliances, transnational associations and enormous plans including the redrawing of borders are expressed. The American-instigated "New Middle East" plan, which provides for the complete rearrangement of the region, is such a plan. This includes the escalating militarization of the region

by NATO, the EU, and Israel with the strengthening of their military presence in the Mediterranean, the intensification of naval and air exercises, the further nuclearization and use of military bases.

All these represent the armed wing of capitalism that protects and guards the monopolies actions.

In this context we should view new issues (such as the intervention in Libya, the partition of Sudan, the uprisings in the Arab countries and the way they have developed), but also pending international problems such as the Middle East and the Turkish occupation of Cyprus within this framework.

Dear comrades, We have a responsibility to intensify our initiatives on the front of internationalist solidarity and antiwar action.

- We should intensify our warnings locally and enhance the mobilization of the people.

- We should open the discussion on the developments in the Eastern Mediterranean in the international bodies we participate and exert pressure on the governments of our countries not to become involved in any way in the developments unfolding. AKEL has demanded public explanations from the Government of Cyprus concerning the consent the EU has granted for the lifting of the arms embargo to the Syrian opposition.

- We should undertake joint international action in the region through solidarity initiatives, visits etc.

For us, internationalist solidarity is not merely humanitarian assistance to suffering peoples; it is an expression of a common outlook and strategy against imperialism, despite whatever secondary differences we may have.

The Communists are in the front line of peace – loving antiwar action not because they are pacifists but anti-imperialists. We highlight that peace is not merely the absence of war, but the absence, the eradication of the causes of war. And the cause of imperialist wars will not be found elsewhere than in the same predatory nature of monopoly capitalism, which sometimes is manifested in a bloodless manner and (inevitably) sometimes takes the form of aggressions and wars. It is the peoples however who pay the price both for imperialist wars and imperialist "peace."

The more our struggle against imperialist wars and against the tribulations the capitalist crisis and capitalist development entails for the peoples gains ground, the more the brutal exploitative nature of the system itself will be revealed. So will the fact that capitalism has long ago reached its limits and is now decaying parasitically, so will the socialist future of humanity be illuminated.

Visit of the General Secretary of the Portuguese Communist Party in Cyprus

T

he General Secretary of the Portuguese C.P. (PCP) has visited Cyprus on the 19th of June. He was accompanied by the member of the Political Committee and the International Department of PCP com. Angelo Alves.

During the visit com. De Sousa held a bilateral meeting and a common Press Conference with the General Secretary of the CC AKEL com. Andros Kyprianou. During the bilateral talks issues of common interest were discussed as the political developments in Europe and particular in Cyprus and Portugal and the upcoming European Elections in May 2014.

"The root cause of the problems in our view are to be found in the policies being implemented over all the past decades by the ruling circles of the European Union," noted Andros Kyprianou, adding that worst of all "is that they are attempting by implementing the same recipes and policies that led to the global economic crisis to solve the problems the peoples are facing." He went on to say that "the results are clear. In Portugal, Cyprus, Greece and Spain, and wherever these policies are being implemented, not only have they not led to exiting the crisis and overcoming the recession countries have been plunged into, but on the contrary the crisis has deepened even more". The General Secretary of the Portuguese Communist Party Jeronimo De Sousa during the meeting touched on Portugal's experience which Andros Kyprianou characterised as a "night-

mare". "There is only one option before us, "the General Secretary of AKEL pointed out, namely to disengage from the Memoranda which have been imposed on us by the European Union."

On his part, the General Secretary of PCP expressed the solidarity of the Portuguese Communist Party with AKEL and the Cypriot people in the face of the great threats they have to encounter with regards living conditions, but also concerning the future.

"We have shared our experiences from Portugal which over the last two years has witnessed the conditions of an administration under a Memorandum", he said, noting that, " They told the people there would only be one Memorandum that would seek to find solutions regarding the debt and the deficits," Now, he stated, two years have passed since the imposition of the Memorandum and the debt, the deficits, unemployment, poverty and social injustice have all increased. They may have solved the problems the bankers and financial capital faced, but they have greatly exacerbated working people's problems," Jeronimo de Sousa underlined.

"It is important for the Cypriot people to understand that with the ruling forces dominating the European Union, with the role of the IMF, the goal is the imposition of austerity, the increase in profits for big capital and the deterioration of the socio-economic situation for the working people", said Jeronimo de Sousa.Furthermore, the General Secretary of PCP added that at this moment "the working people and the people of Portugal are taking the path of protest against the Memorandum and the Troika. We are at a stage of a very strong protest by the people. The people are struggling so that they will be the ones to decide about their own path and future and not any foreign forces and organisations."

During the meeting the two leaders also exchanged views on strengthening and enhancing joint action between the two Parties.

The General Secretary of PCP addressing to the mass event organized

by AKEL in Larnaca, where the GS of AKEL analyzed the Political Proposal of AKEL for an exit from Memorandum

Visit of the President of the Communist Party of Bohemia & Moravia in Cyprus

A

delegation of the Communist Party of Bohemia & Moravia headed by the President of the Party, Filip Vojtech visited Cyprus on 29th of May 2013. The Cyprus Problem, EU policies and the consequences of the capitalist crisis were the main issues at the meeting between the leadership of the Czech communists and the General Secretary of the C.C. of AKEL Androw Kyprianou.

The GS of AKEL thanked the Communist Party of Bohemia & Moravia for their support to the struggle of Cyprus for liberation and reunification of the island and its people. Andros Kyprianou congratulated the Communist Party of Bohemia-Moravia for the very good results on the last year’s elections, where CPBM gained 21% and became the second political force in Czech Republic.

The two leaders exchanged views on the upcoming European Elections of May 2014 and agreed on continuing contacts among European left parties in order to form a common declaration. The GS of the CC of AKEL assured that the relations of the two parties will be considerably enhanced.

On his behalf, the President of CPBM expressed support to the UN Resolutions on Cyprus Problem, pointing out that only their implementation can lead to a fair and viable solution. Filip Vojtech thanked AKEL for its contribution on the formation of a progres-

sive left agenda as a response to the economic policies of EU. The continuation of the neoliberal policies will only deepen the consequences of the crisis.

The delegation of the Communist Party of Bohemia & Moravia had also a meeting with the President of the Parliament and leader of Cypriot socialdemocratic party (EDEK) Yiannakis Omirou. The leader of CPBM expressed the support of its party to the eorts for a fair solution of the Cyprus problem, which should end the Turkish occupation.

The President of the CPBM Filip Vojtech with the President of the Parliament of Cyprus Yiannakis Omirou.

Solidarity with the struggle of the people of Turkey AKEL has stood clearly in solidarity with the people of Turkey and the Communist Party of Turkey to their just struggle for social rights and freedoms in Turkey.

The protests that started and continue in the Taksim square and Gezi Park in Istanbul have managed to express the reaction of a great part of the Turkish people that reject conservatism and religion orientated policies as well the brutal oppression of the state against the freedom of expression and political struggle. Also, the foreign policy of Turkey in the region is additional reason of the popular reaction against the government’s policies.

A K E L has also called for par t i c iaption at the solidarity event with the struggle of the people of Turkey organised by the Pancyprian Peace Council. At the event, Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots clearly declared their support to the just struggle of the protesters and condemned the brutal attack against protesters and cadres of the Communist Party of Turkey.

AKEL on the mass demonstrations in Turkey (03.06.2013) AKEL condemns the brutal repression of the demonstrators in Turkey by the police forces of the country which according to international human rights organisations has led to the death of at least two people, at least 1,000 injured persons and to the arrest of as many people. The violent repression of the demonstrators, in conjunction with the imposition of a wall of silence surrounding the events by the Turkish electronic mass media, represent further proof about the severe deficits in democracy and the protection of human rights and freedoms in Turkey.

Without ignoring the positive steps that have been taken by the successive governments of the AKP party in the direction of the significant restriction of the role of the army and solution of the Kurdish issue, nonetheless the Erdogan government is increasingly projecting an even more autocratic and arrogant face. At the same time, the endorsement of reforms promoting Islamism in Turkish society that are undermining the secular character of the state, besides leading to the conservative orientation of society, is resulting in the violation of human rights and freedoms. Turkey must proceed to further profound reforms so that the level of democracy, human rights and the rule of law will be in line with International and European principles.

AKEL on the attack on the offices of the Communist Party of Turkey (03.06.2013) AKEL condemns the brutal attack on the offices of the Communist Party of Turkey which has become the target of the fierce repression by the Turkish authorities. The attack resulted in the injury of several members and friends of the Party and the destruction of the offices of the Party and the Cultural Centre "Nazim Hikmet."

AKEL salutes the stance of the Communist Party of Turkey which both on the issue of the installation of the NATO "Patriot" missile shield in Turkey, as well as on the occasion of the events before yesterday, has reacted through mass action and urges the Turkish government to release immediately all the detained demonstrators and end the attacks of violence and repression.

AKEL supports the solidarity meeting with the Turkish people organised by the Cyprus Peace Council (06.06.2013) The Turkish government is continuing the repression against the protesters who are demanding democracy. Today a third protester has been murdered.

We call on the International Organizations not to tolerate any longer the state violence in Turkey. The Turkish government must release and drop all charges against the protesters. It must remove all restrictions on civil liberties and rights, and punish those guilty of crimes. Obviously the root causes of the uprising in Turkey are much wider than that presented by both the Turkish and foreign media. It has to do with the repression of labour rights, but also with serious political developments of international significance in Turkey itself and the region where Turkey is involved.

Within this context AKEL expresses its support to the international solidarity meeting organized by the Cyprus Peace Council on Friday, 7th June at the End of Ledra at 5:00 p.m. and urges the Cypriot people to participate en masse. This bicommunal event is a protest against the oppressive policy of the Turkish Government and will express its solidarity with the uprising of a large section of the Turkish people.

AKEL on the arrest of cadres of the Communist Party of Turkey-TKP (10.07.2013) AKEL condemns the mass arrests of cadres and friends of the Communist Party of Turkey by the Turkish authorities the day before yesterday. These arrests were made within the framework of the mass arrests of cadres and leaders of organizations, trade unions and political parties. Furthermore, these arrests are nothing more than the continuation of a series of persecutions, arrests and prosecutions of demonstrators by the Turkish authorities, in their attempt to violently repress the popular peaceful uprising in Turkey. In addition, the arrests of cadres of the Turkish Communist Party are an attempt to wipe out the organized peaceful struggle the Party is waging with thousands of other protesters at the Gezi Park for a month now.

As AKEL, we join our voices with all those demanding the release of the political prisoners and the revocation of their arrest warrant.

1st of September 2013

Peace and Reunification Meeting extracts from the speech of Pambis Kyritsis, General Secretary of the Pancyprian Federation of Labour (PEO) “We have once again gathered here at this Gathering of Peace and Reunification, which the class oriented trade union movement in our country has now established and projected as a vigorous and mass popular mobilization. Together, tens of Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot progressive organizations, political parties and movements, are once again raising our voices for Peace in the world and for Peace and the Reunification of our common homeland, honouring in this way the International Day of Trade Union Action for Peace. On this day, we remember and honour the millions of victims of the fascist brutality, the most terrible and destructive war humanity has known.

tary operations and imperialist adventures, especially when these are directed against friendly peoples such as the people of Syria. We demand from the Government of Cyprus that it rises to the occasion and reacts decisively to any use of the British bases for military operations in Syria”.

Our region is perhaps the most troubled and volatıle region ın the world. The drums of war in the eastern Mediterranean and Middle East are now beatıng relentlessly. The situation in Syria, due to the foreıgn interventions has already led the country into a bloody civil war, with ıts people paying a heavy price in damage to property and loss of human lives. However, the greatest concern comes from the most blatant preparation by the hawks of the West for air strikes and military operations on the territory of Syria, with unpredictable and extremely dangerous consequences for peace and security throughout the whole region.

We deplore any idea of trying to resolve the problems Syria is facing through war and foreign interventions. We reject this imperialist approach. We demand the respect of International Law, human rights and especially of the independence and sovereignty of states.

We support the peaceful resolution of the problem in Syria through the diplomatic and peaceful procedures of the United Nations. We are against any indirect or direct intervention in the country.

Once again the war preparations of the British and the possibility of using their military bases in Cyprus for adventures and geostrategic games for dominance, stress the need for Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, united, to continue and intensify the struggle in order to abolish the military bases in Cyprus and ensure the total liberation of our country from foreign armies and bases.

We strongly condemn any attempt to involve Cyprus in mili-

International Relations Department of C.C .of AKEL Tel: 00357-22817346 |

Fax: 00357-22589503

International Department: interbureau@akel.org.cy | Costas Christodoulides: cchristodoulides@cytanet.com.cy Elias Demetriou: edemetriou@akel.org.cy

| Giorgos Koukoumas: giorgos.koukoumas@cytanet.com.cy