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 talks on the status of Cyprus resumed in December 1999 to prepare the ground for meaningful negotiations leading to a comprehensive settlement.

PEOPLE AND HISTORY
Greek and Turkish Cypriots share many customs but maintain distinct identities based on religion, language, and close ties with their respective "motherlands." Greek is predominantly spoken in the south, Turkish in the north. English is widely used. Cyprus has a well-developed system of primary and secondary education. The majority of Cypriots earn their higher education at Greek, Turkish, British, or American universities. Both the Turkish and Greek communities have developed private colleges and state-supported universities.

ECONOMY
Cyprus has an open, free-market, serviced-based economy with some light manufacturing. The Cypriots are among the most prosperous people in the Mediterranean region. Internationally, Cyprus promotes its geographical location as a "bridge" between West and East, along with its educated English-speaking population, moderate local costs, good airline connections, and telecommunications.

U.S.-CYPRUS RELATIONS
The United States regards the status quo on Cyprus as unacceptable. Successive administrations have viewed UN-led intercommunal negotiations as the best means to achieve a fair and permanent settlement. The United States will continue actively to support and aid the UN Secretary General's Good Offices Mission. The United States is working closely with Cyprus in the war on terrorism. A Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty, which has been in force since September 18, 2002, facilitates bilateral cooperation.
Full country name: Republic of Cyprus
Area: 9,250 sq km
Population: 772,000
Capital City: Nicosia
People: Cypriot (Greek 78%, Turkish 18% - including 141,000 in North Cyprus)
Language: Greek, Turkish, English
Religion: Greek Orthodox 78%, Muslim 18%, Maronite, Armenian Apostolic and Christian 4%
Government: republic
Head of Government: President Tassos Papadopoulos
GDP: US$10 billion
GDP per capita: US$15,000
Annual Growth: 3%
Inflation: 1.7%
Major Industries: Tourism, fruit & vegetables, wine, cement, clothing, shoes
Major Trading Partners: Russian, Bulgaria, UK, Greece, Japan, Germany, Turkey (North only)
Member of EU: Yes