Cyprus

National name: Kypriaki Dimokratia—Kibris Cumhuriyeti

Government
Republic. Mediation efforts by the UN seek to reunify the Greek and Turkish areas of the island under one federated system of government.

Geography
The third-largest island in the Mediterranean, Cyprus lies off the southern coast of Turkey and the western shore of Syria. The highest peak is Mount Olympus at 1,953 m.

Historical Background
A former British colony, Cyprus became independent in 1960 following years of resistance to British rule. In 1983, the Turkish-held area declared itself the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus," but it is recognized only by Turkey. The entire island entered the EU on 1 May 2004, although the EU acquis - the body of common rights and obligations - applies only to the areas under direct Republic of Cyprus control, and is suspended in the areas administered by Turkish Cypriots. At present, every Cypriot carrying a Cyprus passport has the status of a European citizen; however, EU laws do not apply to north Cyprus. Nicosia continues to oppose EU efforts to establish direct trade and economic links to north Cyprus as a way of encouraging the Turkish Cypriot community to continue to support reunification.

Capital

Nicosia

Government

Presidential republic

Language

Greek, Turkish

Religion

Greek Orthodoxy

Area

Total 9,248 km2 (167th) 3,571 (Includes North) sq mi

Population

2010 estimate 803,147 [4]increase (Does not include North)

Currency: Euro2(EUR)

GDP

2010 estimate Total $22.745 billion