Press Statement
Gonzalo Gallegos, Acting Deputy Spokesman
Washington, DC
July 25, 2008
United Nations Announcement on Cyprus
We applaud the United Nations’ announcement today that Greek Cypriot leader Demetris Christofias and Turkish Cypriot
leader Mehmet Ali Talat have agreed to start direct negotiations on September 3 under UN auspices aimed at the
reunification of Cyprus.
We strongly support the stated goal of these negotiations to find a mutually-acceptable solution to the Cyprus problem
that will safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots.
The two leaders also approved 16 confidence-building measures that will assist the process of finding a solution. The
United States stands ready to support the two leaders and the UN in this process.
We look forward to rapid progress over the coming months and hope that these negotiations will result in an agreement on
the reunification of the island.
2008/603
Released on July 25, 2008
ENDS