LIFE> Travel
|
LIFE> Travel
|
|
Cypriot ghost town waits for life to begin again
(Agencies)
Updated: 2009-11-10 10:30 "This doesn't sit well with those wanting to go back home," Mesarites said. The Turkish Cypriot leaders say they have no plans concerning Varosha, an ever-present bargaining chip in the ongoing negotiations. "We have no plans or programs for the rehabilitation of Varosha. It's resettlement can only happen as part of a comprehensive solution to the Cyprus problem," said Ozdil Nami, a senior aide to Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat. A U.N. blueprint in 2004 had provided for the return of Varosha to Greek Cypriot control, in a loose confederation. The plan was rejected by Greek Cypriot voters. But local and former residents have still not given up hope, and have amassed some 30,000 signatures in a petition to return the city to its former glory. "The Famagusta we go back to will never be the Famagusta we left," Galanos said. |
