What is the status of the reunification process with the ML? Both parties have put forward their views. We want both parties to accept the recommendations of the Sixth Convention. Issues that we do not agree on can be set aside for the moment. The Seventh Convention will be held 15 months from now and we can work through those matters then. We are flexible on other issues. The ML wants the issues on which no agreement had been reached to be dealt with immediately. The Sixth Convention seems to be the stumbling block. Both parties have placed all the issues at hand before their central committees. The central committees have given new directives and based on these the dialogue is being carried forward. Unification will take some time. In the meantime we must work towards finding common ground with other left parties. A common working agenda can be formed.
How can unification be possible if neither side is willing to give in?
We are very flexible. If they (the ML) accept the Sixth Convention, then all issues can be discussed and resolved after unification.
But how can the ML accept that if they do not even accept the Sixth Convention?
They participated in the Sixth Convention.
So unification is impossible before the Seventh Convention?
If the ML accepts the Sixth Convention decisions, everything else can be rectified at the Seventh.
Is unification possible if both sides stick to their respective agendas?
The possibility of unification still exists, that door is still open. If both of us (negotiators) stick to the mandate defined by our parties, then unification is not possible in the near future. Some time later, maybe.
Is the UML ready to rectify the decisions of the Sixth Convention?
The central committee may be able to find a way out.
