Powell: Revised Annan document is fair for both sides

The United States backed a settlement presented by UN chief Kofi Annan to reunite Cyprus and praised the parties after negotiations that forced them to compromise.

In a statement from Berlin early on Thursday, U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell said he saluted "the constructive contributions" of Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders as well as their main backers, Greece and Turkey.

"I support the comprehensive settlement," said Powell, who was in contact with the negotiators in its final stages on Wednesday. "This is an historic moment and a powerful signal of reconciliation."