The following quote was taken from an article in the Economist published in 2009, titled ‘A Mediterranean maelstrom’. The article attempts to present an unbiased view of Turkey’s EU progress and how a solution to the Cyprus problem will help its European aspirations.

When the Turkish army overran the north, as much as 80% of property there belonged to Greek-Cypriots, who either fled or lost their lives. In many cases they or their heirs still hold the title deeds, even though the property has been seized by Turkish-Cypriots, developed or, in some cases, sold to foreigners. Mr Talat says property questions must be settled by an independent commission, with compensation paid to former owners (though he is vague about where the money will come from).

Asked for his views, Mr Christofias says endearingly that, as a communist, he does not like private property. Yet the Greek-Cypriots have a clear policy: the original owners must decide. A few might return; others might sell; still others might accept compensation.

Read the original article here.