The U.S. is exploring ways to help the rival communities in Cyprus to reunify the island hopefully by the end of 2009, but with no intention to intervene, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Matthew Bryza said here on Monday.

"We don't have any intention of imposing ourselves or forcing anyone to do anything they do not wish to do," Bryza told reporters following a meeting with Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat.

He added that Washington, as a "keen observer" on the developments concerning the eastern Mediterranean island, has "nothing but good will, good intentions" to help Greek and Turkish Cypriots work out a mutually acceptable solution for the long-standing division.

Bryza, who is in charge of European and Eurasian affairs, believes that the decision on opening a new crossing point in the northwestern area of the island has created a "renewed sense of optimism" that the Cyprus process is moving forward.

Talat has agreed with Greek Cypriot leader Demetris Christofias last Friday to proceed with the opening of Yesilirmak/Limnitis crossing point to facilitate the movement of local people.

The U.S. diplomat expressed his hope that the new energy with the opening of the crossing would be reflected in the talks as leaders hopefully finalize the agreement by the end of the year.

"That will take a lot of work," given the differences yet to be ironed out, he added.

Ealier, Bryza also met with Greek Cypriot officials on the peace process. He is expected to be received by Cyprus President Christofias on Tuesday.

Cyprus has remained divided since 1974 when the Turkish military intervened and occupied the north of the island following a coup by a group of Greek officers.

In 1983, the Turkish Cypriot authorities declared breakaway and set up a "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" recognized only by Turkey, which is now bidding to join the European Union.

Washington has been a close ally of Turkey and staunch supporter of Ankara's EU aspiration. Many Greek Cypriots have accused the United States of being too pro-Turkish.

Source: Xinhua