| Independence from the UK was approved in
1960, with constitutional guarantees by the Greek Cypriot majority to the Turkish
Cypriot minority. In 1974, a Greek-sponsored attempt to seize the government was
met by military intervention from Turkey, which soon controlled almost 40% of
the island. In 1983, the Turkish-held area declared itself the "Turkish Republic
of Northern Cyprus," but it is recognized only by Turkey. UN-led direct talks
between the two sides to reach a comprehensive settlement to the division of the
island began in January 2002. For
a quick brief check The CIA Factbook |
| Border
countries:
Coast line: 648 km 
Airports and maps
(greek side): Paphos
(PFO)
Larnaca
(LCA)
There are no direct flights to the "Turkish"
side Ercan
(ECN) | Area:
total: 9,250 sq km
(of which 3,355 sq km are in the
Turkish Cypriot area)
water: 10 sq km
land: 9,240 sq km Population:
771,657 (July 2003 est.) Language:
Greek, Turkish, English Climate:
temperate;
Mediterranean with hot, dry summers and cool winters |
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