Cyprus-Forum.com

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Cyprus set to get new crossing point between north and south
AFP: 2/3/2005

NICOSIA, Feb 3 (AFP) - Greek and Turkish Cypriot authorities agreed Thursday to open a new crossing point between the north and south of the divided island, an official said.

The crossing point at Zodhia, near Morphou, could be open for business within two months, Cypriot government spokesman Kypros Chrysostomides said.

He also hinted that Nicosia's pedestrian-only Ledra Street, famous for a small barrier reminiscent of the old Berlin Wall, is next on the agenda after Zodhia.

Zodhia is one of eight additional crossing points proposed by the Greek Cypriot side in July. That was a confidence-building initiative to encourage a climate of cooperation and trust, which would contribute to a Cyprus settlement.

But the Turkish Cypriots have argued that they have neither the money nor the manpower to operate eight additional checkpoints, which would bring the total number straddling the 180-kilometre (112-mile) ceasefire line to a round dozen.

Turkish Cypriot authorities eased travel restriction in April 2003, but the number of crossing points remains at four -- including two inside the British military base areas.