Greek Cypriots oppose flight to north

NICOSIA, Cyprus, Aug. 6 (UPI) -- The Greek-Cypriot government is trying to prevent U.S. congressional officials from reaching the island through an airport on its northern, Turkish side.

Cypriot government spokesman Kypros Chrysostomides confirmed U.S. officials were planning to reach Cyprus through the Tymbou airport.

The small airport is in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. The Greek Cypriot government maintains it is under Turkish occupation and thus operating illegally.

The TRNC has been trying to win international recognition.

The Cyprus News Agency quoted Chrysostomides as saying the Greek-Cypriot government was aware of the planned flight to Tymbou and has used diplomatic channels and Cypriot expatriates in the United States to try and prevent it.

Earlier this week TRNC President Mehmet Ali Talat urged Turkey not to open its air and seaports to the Greek Cypriot administration.