G.O. Notes

The last day of the first week of intensive negotiations between the Cypriot leaders is coming to a close amid high expectations.  The leaders have so far discussed the question of governance and how the two communities — Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots – would share power in a future united Cyprus.  Other issues on the agenda for the stepped up talks include economic matters and European Union affairs.

Today’s meeting has been taking place under some clouds, both figurative and literal.  Rain has been intermittent throughout the day, making conditions for journalists and UNFICYP staff camped out in front of the talks venue a little trickier.  But there is also somewhat of a somber mood inside:  many Cypriots are still in shock over the murder of Antis Hadjicostis, the media mogul killed Monday in Nicosia (Greek Cypriot leader Demetris Christofias took time out from the negotiations to attend the funeral today); and UN staff are anxiously awaiting news about their colleagues in earthquake-ravaged Haiti.  Good news out of the discussions would most definitely help lift the mood.

JL Diaz