UN chief discusses intensive talks with Christofias and Talat

UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon ''discussed the upcoming two intensive rounds of substantive negotiations that the Cypriot leaders will have this month, in separate phone calls with the Cypriot leaders,'' according to Martin Nesirsky, the Secretary General's Spokesman.

''He encouraged both leaders to remain committed and to show flexibility and leadership. He is convinced that win-win solutions in many different areas are available and he is confident that together both leaders have the political courage and vision required to make progress,'' Nesirsky added.

Nesirsky furthermore noted that ''the Secretary General assured both leaders of the United Nations' and his personal support.''

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third.

The leaders of the two communities in Cyprus, namely President of the Republic Demetris Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat, have been engaged in UN-led direct negotiations since September 2008, with an aim to reunify the island.