Tensions have risen within the governing coalition, with partner parties publicly voicing their disagreement over the administration’s handling of the latest developments on the Cyprus problem.
The Movement for Social Democracy (EDEK) issued a statement on Saturday criticising the government’s decision to allow Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to participate in an informal EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting.
This incident is part of a growing pattern of dissent within the coalition, particularly regarding the Cyprus issue. Sources suggest these disagreements may intensify if significant developments occur in September.
EDEK’s statement also reflected broader discontent with the lack of briefings from President Nikos Christodoulides on Cyprus-issue-related matters. Party sources indicated they expected more consultation on anticipated developments.
The statement read: “EDEK considers the government’s decision to consent to send an invitation to Turkey to participate in the informal meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council as a mistaken strategic and tactical move, as no gestures of goodwill from Turkey have been secured in return, at any level.”
Internal discord was further evident when EDEK members expressed concern over a speech by Agriculture Minister Maria Panagiotou, a former party spokesperson, endorsing a bizonal, bicommunal federation as the only viable solution for Cyprus.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Party (DIKO) was also angered by the government’s decision. Three DIKO MPs – Christos Orfanides, Pavlos Mylonas and Zacharias Koulias – have requested a Central Committee meeting to discuss recent statements by President Christodoulides and Greek officials regarding the Cyprus issue.
The Democratic Alignment (DIPA), another coalition partner, appears to have fewer divergences on Cyprus-related policies.
