Agreement to open Limnitis

President Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat today agreed to the opening of the Limnitis crossing point. In statements after the meeting, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in Cyprus Mr Tayé-Brook Zerihoun announced said the crossing point would open “under normal rules of existing crossings” and underscored “the role of UNFICYP”. In reference to Kokkina, Mr Zerihoun said that there would be “transfer of reasonable quantities of food and water and other supplies on non-military nature, with UNCFICYP escort”.

The President of the European Commission, Mr José Manuel Barroso, who is currently in Cyprus, has urged the two communities to redouble their efforts for a solution to the Cyprus problem.“The European Commission and I personally support very much the efforts of the leaders in every way we can. We cannot make the deal. That’s the point people have to understand. We can help find a solution, we can support find a solution, but it is up to Cypriots themselves to find this solution,” Barroso said yesterday after meeting President Christofias.

“There is a historic chance now to end this conflict once and for all. So please keep up your efforts Mr. President. The time is now. Do not allow a situation where the younger generation will simply accept the status quo.”

The European Commission President said reunification would allow all Cypriots to reap the benefits of Cyprus’ membership in the EU. “That is the message that I am bringing here today, one of confidence in the future of this country.”

The EU President also went north where he saw Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat.In comments to the press later, Talat described Barroso’s meeting to the island as “an important event,” adding he had the opportunity to convey the Turkish Cypriot views on the present state of the Cyprus problem. “I can say that it was a very useful meeting,” Talat noted.