CONFIDENTIAL
1. The Cyprus dispute has existed for at least 20 years, and in its present form since 1974, when Turkey invaded Cyprus and occupied some 35% of the island, which has remained under Turkish/Turkish Cypriot control as the self-proclaimed ''Turkish Federated State of Cyprus''. Efforts by the UN Secretary-General to secure a settlement through intercommunal talks under his auspices have so far been unsuccessful, but the talks continue and there have recently been some encouraging developments. The UN is also involved through its peacekeeping force in Cyprus, UNFICYP.
2.
The UK delegation should generally try to avoid becoming involved in any disputes which may arise between the Cypriot and Turkish dele- gations, but should bear in mind that the British Government recognise only one Cypriot state the Republic of Cyprus. The Turkish delegation may challenge the credentials of the delegation from the Republic of Cyprus by claiming that they are not representative of both communities in Cyprus. If the question should go to the vote, the United Kingdom delegation should support the right of the delegation from the Government of the Republic of Cyprus to attend the Conference.
3.
If any delegation claiming to represent the ''Turkish Federated State of Cyprus'' applies for status, the United Kingdom delegation should not support their application nor become involved in the exchanges. If, however, the Turkish Cypriots simply want to present their case, and the rules of procedure permit this without it amounting to recognition of the ''TFSC'', the United Kingdom delegation should not oppose their right to speak.
4.
In the UK's view, a technical conference is not the proper forum for discussion or resolutions about the political problems of Cyprus. But if it becomes apparent that the conference is set on the adoption of a resolution in Cyprus, the UK delegation should work for (a) a conerted reaction by members of the Nine and (b) a resolution that is as unobjectionable to Cyprus, Greece and Turkey as possible. Before casting any vote on a resolution, the UK delegation should refer to the FCO for instructions (233 4189).
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CONFIDENTIAL