Cyprus may see referendum in mid-2017: Akinci

By Murat Demirci

LEFKOSA, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

Turkish Cypriot President Mustafa Akinci said a referendum can be held in Cyprus in mid-2017.

Speaking after meeting British Foreign Minister Boris Johnson, Akinci said it was not possible to resolve “all details of the dispute” by the end of this year.

“Let's get an outline, [and] wait to know more about what will happen about the territories. Let's wait to know what will happen about the pending issues pertaining to our political equality," Akinci said.

In his remarks, the Cypriot leader said several issues about writing the constitutions and implementation might fall into 2017, adding that the first three months would see preparation of constitutions.

“In the second three months of 2017, an adequate time will be given to our people. Everyone will see what issues are agreed. Referendums may be held in mid-2017,” added.

Johnson, for his part, thanked Akinci for his effort during the ongoing peace talks about the divided island and said, "Britain desires to help solve the Cyprus dispute."

The U.S. State Department said Wednesday the U.S. continues to support the UN-led and -facilitated process, adding that it was encouraged by the progress made so far this year.

"Our focus remains on supporting efforts by the parties to reach a comprehensive settlement and to reunify Cyprus as a , federation," agency spokesman Mark Toner said during a press briefing.

Last Monday, UN-mediated peace talks on Cyprus between Akinci and Greek Cypriot leader Nicos Anastasiades in Mont Pelerin ended without a solution.

Reunification discussions resumed in May 2015, and both sides repeatedly expressed optimism that a solution could be found by the end of 2016