WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — "The leaders agreed on the importance of the ongoing Conference on Cyprus in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, and expressed hope that the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders will agree to a settlement that would reunify Cyprus as a bizonal, bicommunal federation to the benefit of all Cypriots," the release said.
Pence and Mogherini also talked about trade including Pence’s upcoming trips to Estonia, Georgia and Montenegro, the release added.
On June 30, Turkish and Greek Cypriots kicked off reunification talks at the Swiss Crans-Montana resort. Initially, UN officials expected the talks to end by July 7.
Cyprus has been partitioned since 1974, when Turkey occupied the island's northern part, later proclaiming the region the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Turkey maintains a military presence in TRNC, which is only recognized by Ankara as an independent state.
