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The future for Nicosia, the last divided capital in Europe - a continent once marked by division - is looking markedly better. Ledra Street, a barricaded symbol of mistrust in the heart of Cyprus, that had symbolised the tension and partition of the island for the best part of half a century, has been thronged by people taking a small step for themselves but a giant stride forward for political tolerance and understanding by "crossing over".
The barricades that have kept the island's Greek and Turkish communities apart on the Street were a reminder that in the heart of Europe there was still division, long after the fall of the Berlin Wall. That division is still not resolved, but for the first time in years a senior UN official sent to gauge the mood on the island and determine whether the political will exists to re-launch peace talks expressed enthusiasm that a solution could be reached.
It may be the beginning of the end, a process that will lead to not just political unity on the island but a fully unified continent where Greece and Turkey can realise their potential. Cyprus, so full of reminders of the ancient world, could yet be a symbol for a new Europe.
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