UN force helping to facilitate movement of Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots

The United Nations peacekeeping force in Cyprus today said it was working with both the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot sides to help people move to and from the northern and southern sides of the island.

The UN force, known as UNFICYP, said it was continuing to facilitate the movement of Greek Cypriots to the north of the island and Turkish Cypriots to the south of the island in a "safe and orderly" fashion through three checkpoints.

"We ask for everyone's patience and understanding in connection with the delay of passage," UNFICYP said in a statement. "Both sides are currently considering opening an additional crossing point in Nicosia to alleviate the difficult situation."