Instead, such ideas divert attention from Turkey’s continuing aggression against Cyprus and from Ankara’s failure to abide by its obligations to the EU, including the opening of its seaports and airports to ships and aircraft carrying the Cyprus flag. They also inhibit the political will of the Turkish side, thereby undermining initiatives to address the core issue at hand, namely, the solution to the division of Cyprus. Furthermore, they help to solidify the illegal situation created by Turkey in the northern part of Cyprus and to perpetuate the victimization of Turkish Cypriots. Finally, they impede the cause of reconciliation and lasting peace on the island and in the region. Reviving the peace process 2005–2006 Even though the 2002–2004 UN effort did not resolve the Cyprus problem, the referendum was not the end of the road. In fact, the result of the referendum on the Annan Plan must act as a catalyst for reunification and not as a pretext for further division. The Greek Cypriots and the government of the Republic have demonstrated repeatedly that they remain committed to a solution that will provide a prosperous and secure future for all Cypriots and ensure respect for their human rights and fundamental freedoms within the EU. Many in the international community were unfamiliar with the detailed provisions of the failed Annan Plan and its implications on the future of the state of Cyprus and its citizens. It was, therefore, not surprising that they expressed disappointment with the outcome of the referendum. What was actually regrettable and disappointing was that the Plan presented to the people did not allow both communities to endorse it. Whereas other parties simply wanted any solution or a closing up of the Cyprus problem as quickly as possible, the Greek Cypriots have always insisted on achieving a comprehensive, functional, and viable settlement. A solution that can withstand the test of time must be perceived as fair by the people who will have to live with it. Thus, no solution can succeed if it does not address the legitimate concerns that prevented the Greek Cypriots from approving the Annan plan in 2004. The fact that Cyprus is a small and weak state makes it even more imperative that all Cypriots enjoy the fundamental rights that all other EU nationals enjoy under European law and the European Convention, and that there is no discrimination based on ethnicity or religion. In order to revive the peace process, President Tassos Papadopoulos exchanged views with the Secretary-General in New York on 16 September 2005 concerning the preparation of a renewed effort on Cyprus by the UN. The Secretary-General also met with Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat, on 31 October. In his report to the Security Council on 20 November The Cyprus Question| A brief Introduction 22
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