[04] Tarasov: Turkish threats are unacceptable
Nicosia, Jan 16 (CNA) -- Russian Foreign Ministry Representative, Guennadi Tarasov, described as ''unacceptable'' threats expressed by Turkish officials against Cyprus and said the island's total demilitarisation could solve all its problems.
In a statement, Thursday to CNA and the Russian news agency ''Novosti', Tarasov reaffirmed Russia's commitment to deliver the S-300 anti-aircraft missiles within the time limit agreed recently with the government of Cyprus.
The Russian official also commented on threats expressed by Turkish politicians against Cyprus during the last couple of days, as well as a statement by US State Department official Carey Cavanaugh concerning the purchase of Russian anti-aircraft missiles S-300 by Cyprus.
Tarasov stressed there will be no change of the agreement and called on Turkey to adopt President Glafcos Clerides' proposal for a total demilitarisation of the island, if it is really interested for peace in Cyprus and the Eastern Mediterranean region.
''The implementation of this proposal could solve once and for all problems in Cyprus,'' he said.
Commenting on US opposition to the installation of the S-300 on the island, Tarasov said the real reason behind it is concern over Moscow's gradual consolidation in international arms trade.
CNA AP/MCH/1997
ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY
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