Peace Negotiations in Cyprus

President Vassilou, president of Cyprus, spoke on the reunification of Cyprus at a luncheon of the National Press Club. Cyprus, separated into Greek and Turkish sectors since a Turkish invasion was launched in 1974 to protect Turks on Cyprus from the Greek government, has been seeking diplomatic means to end the division. President Vassilou expressed optimism that a peaceful solution to the hostilities between Greeks and Turks on Cyprus could be found, and stressed the social and economic benefits of a quick solution to the crisis. He blamed the breakdown of negotiations for peace on the unwillingness of the Turks to attend the meetings, and criticized the Turks for maintaining unacceptable conditions for the continuation of peace negotiations.