Eurasia Press & News
As the Turkish and Greek leaders of a divided Cyprus met for talks on Tuesday, US President Barack Obama welcomed the effort and urged the two sides to avoid any actions that could “escalate tension.” In a statement released by the White House, Obama praised “the renewal of negotiations on a Cyprus settlement under the auspices of the United Nations” by Greek Cypriot leader Nicos Anastasiades and his Turkish Cypriot counterpart Dervis Erogluy.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, with the northern potion controlled and recognized only by the Turks, while the larger, southern portion known as the Republic of Cyprus is run by Greek Cypriots.
“The Joint Statement agreed by the two leaders reflects a spirit of compromise and lays a solid foundation for results-oriented talks,” he said. “The United States congratulates the two leaders for the courage and vision that enabled them to reach agreement on this important statement, which embodies key principles to guide their further work.
