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NORTHERN CYPRUS NEWS

Historic Moment

The Lokmaci Barricade that has divided Lefkosa from South Nicosia for more than 40 years was demolished yesterday in a shock move by the Greek Cypriot government. Bulldozers started knocking down the "Wall of Shame" just before midnight on Thursday and work continued until 2am yesterday under tight security to pull down the barrier completely. Crowds which had gathered near the wall, built in the early 1960's, cheered as it tumbled. EU Enlargement Commission Olli Rehn welcomed the Greek Cypriot authority's action as a "courageous decision" and said he hoped a crossing would soon be opened there. The long-awaited opening of the crossing point would be a major symbolic step forward in bringing both communities in Nicosia closer together. It would also encourage the necessary efforts aiming at a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem under UN auspices.

CTA German Flights

Cyprus Turkish airlines have announced plans to launch scheduled flights to Munich and Frankfurt airports in Germany starting from June. The service will operate until November. The airline's general co-ordinator said charter flights between turkey and Frankfurt to north Cyprus would be extended from May.

Estate Agents Bill

A parliamentary committee has started to review a draft Bill relating to estate agencies and developers. Under the new law, contracts between buyers and sellers would be registered with the Land Registry and commissions regulated. Land subject to contract could only be mortgaged with the written consent of both parties.

Qatar TRNC Office

A TRNC representative office will be opened in Qatar's capital city, Doha, and one other country this year, it has been announced. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs and Defence Minister Turgay Avci said contacts would be strengthened in countries where offices already existed and conditions for staff would be improved.