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December 2, 2008 7:52:10 PM CST

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Cypriots Optimistic About Unification Talks

Posted Sep 3, 08 3:23 PM CDT in World 

(Newser) – The Greek and Turkish halves of Cyprus are meeting for re-unification talks today, and for once, it looks like the island might actually come together, Der Spiegel reports. Both sides are led by like-thinking leaders who played no role in the island’s 1974 division. Many issues still separate the sides, but seem less daunting than before.

“We have a common will and a common desire,” said Greek Cypriot leader Demetris Chrisofias. The UN special envoy to Cyprus, meanwhile, didn’t hesitate to call the meeting “a historic day,” predicting a reconciliation that will “be an inspiration for a troubled world.” Such optimism has been absent in recent years, as entrenched old-guard leaders failed spectacularly in every reunification attempt.

Source Der Spiegel

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Cypriot president Dimitris Christofias, right, and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat are seen during their statement after their meeting at a UN compound today.   (AP Photo)
Cypriot president Dimitris Christofias, left, and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat shake hands after their meeting at a UN compound today.   (AP Photo)
Cypriot president Dimitris Christofias, left, Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat, center, react during their statement after their meeting in the UN buffer zone today.   (AP Photo)
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