A new crossing point in the capital of divided Cyprus

A new crossing point is due to be opened soon in Nicosia, a city across which a dividing line runs, between the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (RCTN) and Southern Cyprus. For the southern Cypriot daily, "the opening of this crossing point [on Ledra street] is an encouraging gesture, providing hope for the reunification of the island. This has nothing to do with the fall of the Berlin Wall. The Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders, Demetris Christofias and Mehmet Ali Talat, have decided to work together. Despite everything, the atmosphere is tense. Especially when Ali Talat announces that the Turkish military troops will not be leaving the island for the time being. . ... While there is a shared desire to destroy the wall, it remains to be seen whether or not the Turkish and Greek Cypriots will manage to live together after a 34 year separation. The large majority considers itself ready, the elite a bit less. The two leaders, old friends, will thus have their strength of conviction and ability to deal with international pressure put to the test."

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