Turkey: Simitis says no EU-entry over Cyprus

"The line that divides Nicosia separates Turkey from Brussels," Costas Simitis said quoted by Kathimerini. "The Turkish Cypriot community has to change policy. We do not need manoeuvres and showy gestures."

Due to opposition by the Turkish Cypriot side, no agreement was reached on the Annan plan aimed at finding a solution to the island’s division.

Because of this, only the Greek Cypriot part will sign the Accession Treaty with the EU on 16 April in Athens.

The UN Secretary General Kofi Annan issued a report on Monday, criticising the Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash’s attitude during the negotiations. This report will be discussed on Thursday at the UN Security Council.

Mr Annan said that the plan remains on the table but ruled out taking on any new initiative without the necessary political will.

The hope remains that a solution can be reached before the island joins the EU – pencilled in for May 2004.