New Green Line crossing point for Cyprus?

The Republic of Cyprus government has indicated its support for the opening of a new crossing at Kato Pyrgos close to the north-western coast of Cyprus, insisting that it has always supported this crossing.

Remarks by the government spokesman George Lillikas came after Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot inhabitants living either side of the divide said that they will be holding a demonstration on April 29 to demand the opening of the crossing point and that they would be presenting the UN and the leaders of the two communities (Tassos Papadopoulos and Mehmet Ali Talat) with a resolution.

Lillikas said that this one of the the eight crossing points it has requested opening since July 2004, adding that the specific crossing point was included in the EU Green Line Regulation.

“As far as the government is concerned, they are knocking on open doors,” he said.

However, moves to open new crossing points have been in stalemate as both sides blame the other for delays. Late last year the government withdrew consent for the opening of a new checkpoint in downtown Nicosia, arguing that the Turkish army was violating the ceasefire line.

“It is up to the Turkish Cypriot side and Turkey to give their consent to open the crossing point, and not the Cypriot government. As soon as they agree, we are ready to proceed with the opening of the crossing point,” said Lillikas.