  The Cyprus conflict

An estimated 13,000 Cypriots took to the streets of Nicosia on Tuesday to protest against the legalisation of the wearing of headscarves in Turkish Cypriot public schools, chanting the slogan 'Cyprus is secular'. High-ranking figures from across the political spectrum of the Turkish-occupied northern part of the island also took part. Media from the south put the rally in context.

For the first time in years, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has indicated progress in talks on the Cyprus question. In a conference this week both sides agreed on joint initiatives. In addition to opening further checkpoints in the UN Buffer Zone, mines are to be cleared, a youth committee established and joint environmental projects planned and implemented. Further negotiations are planned for July.