Merz receives President of Cyprus with military honors in Berlin - Nicosia Remains the World’s Last Divided Capital Amid Rising Tensions
Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, stands as the world's only divided city today. The Republic of Cyprus, in the south, has been an EU member since 2004, while the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) in the north is recognized only by Turkey. The island's division, dating back to 1974, remains a contentious issue, with Turkey maintaining a military presence and supporting the TRNC's independence. The international community, including the EU and UN, considers the northern part as part of the Republic of Cyprus and illegal under international law.
Friedrich Merz, the leader of Germany's CDU party, recently received the Cypriot president in Berlin with full military honors. The visit comes at a time of heightened tensions over Cyprus' division and the German government's role in mediating the conflict. Turkey, which invaded Cyprus in 1974 following a Greek-inspired coup, continues to support a permanent two-state solution on the island. However, the international community, including the EU and UN, advocates for a solution that respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus.
The division of Cyprus has been a long-standing issue, with the island split since 1974. Turkey is the only country to recognize the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, further complicating the diplomatic landscape.
The visit of the Cypriot president to Germany underscores the ongoing efforts to resolve the Cyprus dispute. While Turkey maintains its stance on the issue, the international community continues to press for a solution that respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus. The future of the divided island remains uncertain, with negotiations ongoing to find a lasting resolution.
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