(L-R) Turkish Cypriot Leader Mustafa Akinci, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades shake hands before a dinner at the UNFICYP Residence in Nicosia, Cyprus, December 3, 2015. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst
Reuters: Kerry says peace 'within reach' on Cyprus
Peace is within reach in Cyprus, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said on Thursday as he watched children from both sides of the divided island play basketball together.
Kerry is the latest foreign official to voice optimism that a deal may finally be at hand to reunite the east Mediterranean island, divided since 1974.
Popular Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders want a settlement, Greece and Turkey have other problems, and the discovery of offshore gas could cushion the cost.
"In recent months, it has become clear that the ground really is shifting and tangible progress is being made," Kerry said after separate meetings with Greek Cypriot leader Nicos Anastasiades and Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci. The three planned to dine together afterwards.
WNU Editor: The island has been divided since the Turkish invasion in 1974. It's unification is long overdue.
More News On Hopes That A Peace Deal Is Within Reach On Cyprus
John Kerry says peace deal in Cyprus 'within reach' -- DW
Kerry: Peace 'Within Reach' on Cyprus -- VOA
Kerry says Cyprus could become model for the Middle East -- Washington Post
Kerry: Cyprus solution is within reach -- Cyprus Mail
It's going to be difficult to reunite the island. Turks are moving in left and right.
ReplyDeleteI was on both sides of the island about 10 years ago, both sides despise each other.