Talks between the two sides of Cyprus aimed at reunifying the island are under way and it is hoped that a settlement will be reached by the end of the year. The Turkish Cypriot President Mehment Ali Talat said recently that he would like to conclude talks with the Greek Cypriot leaders and reach a deal soon.
“We have no solid agreement as to when to conclude the talks but the goal is to devise completely a comprehensive solution,” said Talat, who was recently in Ankara, Turkey for talks with Turkish President Abdulah Gul, who reiterated Talat’s comments.
“We want the negotiations to be concluded speedily. If possible, we want to see (the result of the negotiations) submitted to the public through a referendum by the end of this year,” said Gul.
Negotiations between the two sides were re-started in 2008 by Greek Cypriot leader Demetris Christofias and have been ongoing. While some issues have been addressed and there has been progress, according to those knowledgeable about the talks, there are some difficult points that still have to be solved.
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