* Pro EU Candidate Wins Northern Cyprus ElectionsProspects for both an end to Northern Cyprus's international isolation and reunification of the divided island looked to have improved after pro-EU candidate Mehmet Ali Talat was elected as President of the self-proclaimed Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus on Sunday.Winning 56% of the vote, Talat's victory heralded the end of an era for Northern Cyprus in which former leader Rauf Denktash dominated the political landscape.According to the official results of the ballot, Talat's main rival, Dervis Eroglu, drew just 23% of the vote."I want to underline again that Turkish Cypriots are calling for reunification and EU membership," Talat declared after the result of the poll was announced."I am also calling on the Greek Cypriot leaders that I am extending my hand for peace and this hand will be there until it is held. I sincerely believe that one day this hand will be held," he added.
It remains to be seen whether Talat's electoral victory will galvanise settlement negotiations and lead to a permanent solution for the divided island. However, his election was greeted by an upbeat response from the United States government, with a spokesman observing that:
"The United States welcomes this reaffirmation by Turkish Cypriots of their commitment to a comprehensive solution and reunification of the island."