U.S. Secretary of State Kerry Wants Concrete Progress in Cyprus

Kerry voiced his stance for "real and lasting progress," regarding the Cypriot divide, prior to his meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Minister Cavusoglu at the U.S. State Department. The Secretary of State commented that the issue, "just goes on for far too long and it is begging for international efforts to try to help bring about a resolution, a lasting settlement".

Kerry confirmed that he assessed the matter in depth with Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu. The American delegate added, "We believe that the parties can make real and lasting progress in the year 2015. And that will be very positive for the region and obviously a terrific boost and opportunity for a better life for all Cypriots."

Cyprus has been split in two since 1974, when Turkey invaded the northern territory of the island. Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades withdrew his participation from UN-approved peace talks between the two sides last fall, after Turkey's seismic research ship "Barbaros" illegally entered Cyprus' Exclusive Economic Zone.