“Negotiations could lead to a Cyprus solution by 2010”

The UN-led negotiation process underway could lead to a solution of the Cyprus problem by 2010, Olli Rehn, European Union's Commissioner for Enlargement has said.

Rehn's comment came as UN-led negotiating process marked 18 meetings between Cyprus President Demetris Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat, in a bid to bring about a settlement to the problem of Cyprus, divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied 37 per cent of its territory.

''On Cyprus, a settlement process is underway that could lead to the reunification of the island, possibly starting already next year,'' Rehn said, in an address to the European Economic and Social Committee entitled ''Enlargement policy in 2009 – an outlook.''

Describing Turkey as ''a strategic partner for the EU,'' Rehn said Turkey – EU accession negotiations ''are proceeding at a modest but steady pace.''

''I am pleased that there has been some progress with freedom of expression, with the amendment of Article 301 of the penal code,'' adding that the rights of non-Muslim religious minorities have also been strengthened by the adoption of a new law on foundations.

''Still, much remains to be done,'' he concluded.