In statements to the press, yesterday, after the meeting of the National Council, the President of the Republic Mr Demetris Christofias expressed the belief that the technical committees and working groups are expected to start work in a week's time, but noted that ‘we should not set strict and suffocating timeframes".

Asked if he feels more strengthened after the meeting of the National Council and the press release that was issued, President Christofias said: "first of all I feel strengthened by the Cyprus people and secondly, I did not notice any negative reactions by the members of the National Council regarding my handling of the Cyprus issue."

On the issue of functional improvement of the National Council, President Christofias said that he expects written proposals from the political parties, which he will examine and then call a special session of the National Council on the issue. "This is a pre-election promise and I want to keep my promises".

Asked whether he was happy with the progress made on the Cyprus problem, despite the fact that 20 days have elapsed since the 21 March Agreement and the working groups and the technical committees have not started work yet, President Christofias said that the groups and committees are scheduled to begin work this week. President Christofias added that there is progress and when the progress is positive, he is satisfied.

Invited to comment on the illegal visit to the Turkish occupied areas of General Ilter Basbug, the new commander of the Land Forces of the Turkish army, President Christofias stressed that his presence is illegal and provocative. "This is something the United Nations and the International community are well aware, and they are not happy when leaders of the Turkish Military Forces visit the occupied area in order to inspect the troops, especially at a time when a positive effort has begun", he said.

    photos from Cyprus »