Turkish Cypriots are voting in a parliamentary election today, and the result could have a serious impact on peace talks.

The leader in breakaway northern Cyprus, Mehmet Ali Talat, will keep his position whatever the outcome of the vote. However, his political allies, who control parliament, risk being replaced, which could complicate reunification efforts. Opinion polls suggest there could be victory for the National Unity Party, which is pushing for a harder line in talks with Greek Cypriots in the south. The island remains divided since a Turkish invasion in 1974 triggered by a brief Greek inspired coup. Greek Cypriots represent Cyprus in the European Union. They say they will not allow Turkey to join the bloc as long as the island remains divided.More about: Cyprus

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