Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean (9.251 sq. km), situated in its eastern part. It is at the crossroads between Europe, Asia and Africa and plays a bridge building role. The island's main economic activities are banking, tourism, craft exports and merchant shipping. Over the years the economy gradually developed into a modern economy, with dynamic services, industrial and agricultural sectors and advanced physical and social infrastructure. The Republic of Cyprus gained its independence from Britain in 1960 foreseeing a bi-communal structure i.e. peaceful existence of both communities side by side. 20 July and 14 August marked the grim anniversary of the two Turkish invasions of Cyprus in 1974. Since then Turkey occupies one third of the Republic of Cyprus in violation of over 90 United Nations and Security Council resolutions. Today, Turkey continues to threaten yet again Cyprus and the long term security of the Eastern Mediterranean.

Cyprus issue under the auspices of the UN until now, the country still remains divided. However the ban on crossing to and from the south has been lifted on 23 April 2003 for both Turkish and Greek Cypriots. In the first eight days thereafter approximately 90.000 Greek Cypriots and 30.000 Turkish Cypriots took advantage of this situation crossing the line between the north and the south in a general sentiment of joy. No incidents were reported, on the contrary a warm welcome was given to the visiting Greek Cypriots by Turkish Cypriots and to the visiting Turkish Cypriots by the Greek Cypriots. The Republic of Cyprus, with or without a solution to the current Turkish occupation of its northern areas will be joining the European Union in 1st of May 2004. It is hoped that membership will help bring about a solution and security following Turkish withdrawal.