Why does Turkey not recognize Cyprus?
Turkey does not recognize the government of the Republic of Cyprus, stating that the Republic—as established by the Constitution of 1960—ceased to exist when the intercommunal violence that commenced in December 1963 ended Turkish Cypriot participation in the Cypriot government.
Why did Cyprus get invaded?
The Greek Cypriots wanted enosis, integration with Greece, while Turkish Cypriots wanted taksim, partition between Greece and Turkey. Resentment also rose within the Greek Cypriot community because Turkish Cypriots had been given a larger share of governmental posts than the size of their population warranted.
How did Turkey respond to the Greek Cypriot crisis?
Turkey’s response was to send in its forces, eventually taking control of about one third of the island. Hundreds of thousands of Greek & Turkish Cypriots ended up being displaced from their homes. By the end of the year, the Greek military junta had collapsed and a ceasefire was agreed.
Which countries recognise Cyprus as a state?
Turkey is the only country to recognise the state, whilst the rest of the international community see’s North Cyprus as part of the Republic of Cyprus and Turkey’s continued military presence as an illegal occupation. Attempts to find a solution to the Cyprus dispute have so far been unsuccessful.
What are the two main ethnic groups in North Cyprus?
Since Cyprus has two main influential ethnic groups, many towns and cities in North Cyprus are known by two names, one of Greek origin, the other of Turkish. For example, the popular tourist town of Kyrenia (Greek origin) is also known as Girne (Turkish), while the capital Nicosia is also known as Lefkoşa.
What is the current political situation in Cyprus?
The political situation on the island of Cyprus is complex. Decades of scepticism, misunderstanding and stalemate has lead to an island literally divided from shore to shore and kept in a peaceful state by the presence international forces.