A US State Department official has expressed the hope that the two sides in Cyprus will reinvigorate their efforts to reunify the island as a bi-zonal, bicommunal federation.
“The United States congratulates the Republic of Cyprus on holding peaceful and democratic parliamentary elections,” the official said asked to comment on the elections held on Sunday.
Cypriots, he added, “have exercised their right to voice their opinions at the ballot box.”
According to the US official, “Cyprus is a friend and strategic partner, and we look forward to continuing to strengthen our bilateral relationship.”
“Now that the elections have passed, we hope the two sides will reinvigorate their efforts to reunify the island as a bizonal, bicommunal federation,” he noted.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. UN led talks have resumed since last year aiming to reunify the island under a federal roof.
CNA/AZ/EPH/MM/2016
ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY