Demetris Christofias, the president of the Cyprus Greeks and Mehmet Ali Talat- the Turkish leader began negotiating on the unification of the island last fall. A sociological survey shows that ¾ of the Cyprus Greeks do not believe in the success of the negotiations. According to Downer, both leaders should ignore the "ebbs and flows" in public opinion and continue with the negotiations. He warned that despite the "significant progress," important issues are yet to be solved, such as agreeing on property rights, etc. "No settlements will be made until everything is settled," noted the UN representative. Even though the leaders of both communities on the island have gone far in the negotiations regarding the unification, no pressure should be exercised about reaching an agreement, said Downer. "We haven't settled on a specific date. If you aim at a certain date it may turn out that you have reached an unsatisfying agreement and have to start the negotiations all over again."

From September 3 negotiations enter their second stage, in which the countries will attempt to settle most issues. The issue about the island ownership was determined as the most challenging one. During second stage, we will try to be flexible and find common grounds, said the leader of the Cyprus Turks. Christofias and Talat have prepared a schedule of their meetings until October, and this month they will meet every week. Alexander Downer announced that the first reading of the negotiation texts has finished, adding that in September the state system and allocation of authority will be in the agenda.

Diliyana Ivanova