By Martin Banks - 17th March 2009
I still think it is too early to speculate on what may or may not happen if the current talks fail
Caroline Flint
UK Europe minister Caroline Flint says it is "too early to speculate" on the outcome of the current talks aimed at resolving the Cyprus problem.
Speaking in Brussels, she said, "The current negotiations will not be easy but they still offer the best option for the future of the island.
"Turkey will be very important to any final resolution and I hope it will come forward with some practical help to the process along."
She added, "I still think it is too early to speculate on what may or may not happen if the current talks fail."
She was addressing an audience of EU policyholders, NGOs, stakeholders and the media at the residency of the UK ambassador to Belgium on Monday.
The island was divided in 1974 when Turkey invaded in response to a coup by supporters of union with Greece.
Turkey maintains 35,000 troops in the northern breakaway Turkish Cypriot state that only Ankara recognises.
The leaders from both the north and south of the divided Cypriot communities need to overcome key differences which remain on thorny issues such as property rights, power-sharing and security guarantees.
UN officials have said the talks will continue well into 2009.
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