Opportunity knocking for cyprus?

Cyprus reunification is a ‘real possibility’ claims Britain’s Special Representative to the Island…

On a recent visit to the Cyprus, Joan Ryan recently commented: “There is a real possibility that new peace talks could lead to Cyprus' reunification after more than three decades of ethnic division. The current negotiations provide the best opportunity for a solution in many years. This is an opportunity that must not be missed.

Cyprus has been divided along ethnic lines since 1974, when Turkey invaded after a short-lived coup by supporters of Union with Greece. Subsequent attempts to reunify the island failed, but last month new Cyprus President Dimitris Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat agreed to restart talks — ending a four-year stalemate.

Ledra Street opening ‘built confidence’

Ms Ryan added: “I am convinced the leaders of Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities are committed to reaching an agreement. "There will be difficulties, but I'm impressed with the integrity of the leaders' commitment. And with that kind of commitment and the desire of the people of Cyprus, I think a way forward is a real possibility now."

Ms Ryan also highlighted the opening earlier this month of a highly symbolic crossing point in Nicosia's mediaeval center as proof that problems can be solved, saying: "It's amazing the impact that confidence-building measure had. The real lesson is that when there are difficulties, they can be overcome."

Ledra Street — a busy shopping boulevard — was the sixth crossing point to open, but it was hailed as a significant milestone because the street had come to embody the island's division.