Cypriots to lose symbol of division

Published on Saturday 22 March 2008 18:46

RIVAL sides on divided Cyprus were preparing to dismantle a poignant symbol of half a century of division in a move diplomats hope will improve the climate for new peace talks.

Greek and Turkish Cypriot authorities said they would start work from tomorrow, removing a barrier from the main commercial district of Nicosia that has split the United Nations-patrolled medieval city into two since 1958.

"If everything goes to plan we could expect the road to reopen March 31, or possibly April 2 or 3," Greek Cypriot town mayor Eleni Mavrou said.

On the northern side, Turkish Cypriot mayor Cemal Bulutoglulari said: "As far as we are concerned we are ready."

Removal of the barricade on Ledra Street is part of a landmark deal brokered on Friday between Greek Cypriot leader Demetris Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat to resume peace negotiations within three months.

It was their first meeting since Christofias was elected to the Cypriot presidency last month on a pledge of pushing for reunification.

Peace talks stalled in 2004 when Greek Cypriots rejected a UN settlement blueprint accepted by Turkish Cypriots. Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded in response to a brief coup carried out by Greek-Cypriot extremists.