Yes many ex pats now residing and or frequently visiting the island have long term associations. Many, if I'm not mistaken are linked to military service.PoshinDevon wrote: ↑Mon 22 Feb 2021 11:22 pmWell said!wrymouth wrote: ↑Mon 22 Feb 2021 7:06 pmJust in case anybody feels I am unfairly criticising the regime in the south I wanted to add that I first came to this Island in Feb 1966 and stayed just over 3 years. During that time I saw at first hand what was being done to the Turkish Cypriot minority and was appalled. This was the beginning of 3 important changes for me. Firstly, I made several good friends amongst the Turkish Cypriot community especially in Limassol where I lived; some of them are still alive and we are still good friends. Secondly, I became increasingly aware that what newspapers print and what you have seen with your own eyes are not always the same. Finally, and thanks largely to the first two, I began to take a much greater interest in the politics of the Eastern Mediterranean.
My feelings are the same. I love this island and have many Greek and Turkish Cypriot friends. Since first setting foot on the island in 1970 this has not changed. However; I do try and stay away from discussing “The Cyprus Problem” as politics and outside influences have certainly had an impact.
I openly discuss the Cyprus problem as I believe open debate on the issue is good. Many long standing "Cyprus savvy" people well know the divided attitudes of the factions of opinion. Turkish Cypriots are more concerned over Turkish mainlanders than of Greek Cypriots. Many Greek Cypriots still hold affinity to Greece and maintain a dislike for anything Turkish. Turkish Cypriots love the Turkish handouts and financial support that awards them an "easy life" whilst other minorities do the work.
The politics in the eastern Mediterranean is a subject of interest because of the above. Battleship Cyprus has been the focus of attention for centuries because of its geographical and commanding position. It will remain so well into the future.
The division of the island TRNC, ROC, UK reflects the desire to hold territory and position upon its decks.
The UK amongst others failed the island and the Cyprus problem is indeed a problem that should be boldly addressed. At least the Island is currently peaceful and by enlarge remains a stable and happy environment. However the situation could very easily deteriorate quickly because of the battleship status, the fight for mineral rights, and the proximity of unrest in the middle East.
Does this affect access to or from the South. Yes certainly. The UK sovereign bases ( UK territory) provide and maintain security in the South. The less well represented "occupied territory" less so. The Massive Turkish military presence in the North has similar effect. Any sign of trouble and the 1st thing that happens is the borders are closed. Behind the scenes. I think the situation can become quite volatile and it is the UN presence that binds it all together. The decks on the battleship are all ship shape for the time being providing each is happy with its lot. If another war ship chooses to get a bit too close then who knows?