Talks start on reunification of Cyprus

Formal talks on reunifying Cyprus got underway today in Nicosia.

The UN said the discussions between Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders were productive.

The talks are part of a peace process that was launched on September 3 and will resume on September 18.

Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat wants two politically equal states set up, but this idea is rejected by Greek Cypriot leader Dimitris Christofias.

Cyprus entered the European Union as a divided island, and its continued division is a block to Turkey’s acceptance into the EU.

The UN’s Annan Plan for reunification was accepted by Turkish Cypriots in a referendum in 2004 but was rejected by the Greek population.

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