Greek, Turkish Cypriots rally for reunification

Hundreds of demonstrators from both communities of Cyprus marched to the defense wall on the Greek Cypriot side in central Nicosia on Saturday, calling for demolishing all barricades bisecting the capital.

The demonstration was organized by several civil groups and drew crowds of journalists from both the Turkish Cypriot- controlled north and the Greek Cypriot-dominant south.

Chanting slogans such as "Greek and Turkish Cypriots, get united" "Knock down the wall," the demonstrators marched through the Ledra Street, a commercial thoroughfare in downtown Nicosia, to the defense wall next to a UN-controlled buffer-zone.

Earlier this week, Turkish Cypriots dismantled a controversial footbridge they built one year ago, sparking increasing calls from both communities to knock down the defense wall in return and to open a crossing gate in Ledra Street.

The opening of more crossing gates is necessary for the struggle for a united Cyprus, for a solution to the Cyprus problem and for peace on the island, said a written statement released to the press.

"We must not miss the opportunity once more," said a Greek Cypriot demonstrator.

Kemal Darbaz, a Turkish Cypriot journalist, told the rally that historical burden and outside factors should not prevent local Cypriots from striving hand in hand for a reunited Nicosia and a reunited island.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey militarily intervened and occupied the north of Cyprus following a coup by a group of Greek officers.

In 1983, the Turkish Cypriot authorities declared breakaway and established "the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus," which is only recognized by Turkey.

Despite longstanding mistrust between the two communities, especially their leaders, calls for a peaceful solution to the Cyprus issue are increasing.

Source: Xinhua