Austrian presidency says Turkey must recognise Cyprus this year

The Austrian chancellor Wolfgang Schussel has increased pressure on Turkey by setting a deadline for its recognition of Cyprus by the end of 2006.

Turkey has "until the end of 2006" to recognise the government of the Republic of Cyprus, the Austrian leader said after meeting Cypriot president Tassos Papadopoulos in Vienna on Tuesday (21 February), according to agency reports.

Ankara should also open its ports for Cypriot vessels and its airspace for Cypriot planes before next year...