The religious leaders of the two areas of Cyprus will meet for the very first time today. The event is part of a series of meetings promoted by René van der Linden, president of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (Apce), which is on an official visit in Cyprus these days, precisely to promote dialogue and reconciliation. "One of the best ways to overcome misunderstandings and prejudices is to meet and get to know each other", said the president of Apce, who welcomed the opening of some passages in the Green Line that separates the Greek part from the Turkish part of the island. "They will boost he stated the reconciliation of the two communities". "There can be no long-lasting solution for the situation in Cyprus without serious, consistent talks between the two communities, at all possible levels. We have already encouraged work contacts within our Assembly, where two Turkish Cypriot delegates take part in our activities". Van der Linden’s visit will end tomorrow. Before his departure, he will meet Mehmet Ali Talat, a Turkish Cypriot executive. Cyprus has been a member of the Council of Europe since 1961.
