Why is northern Cyprus no longer part of Cyprus?

Answer 1

In 1960, Cyprus gained independence from British rule, but only after plans for 'enosis' or union with Greece, was abandoned by both Greek and Turkish Cypriots. However, tensions grew to such an extent that in 1974, the Greek military junta removed President Makarios from office, and just days later Turkish forces occupied the northern side of the island to protect the Turkish Cypriot population. As the island divided, approximately 160,00 Greek Cypriots fled south, and 50,000 Turkish Cypriots fled north. In 1983, the north declared independence and established the Turkish republic of North Cyprus, or TRNC. In the last three years, leaders on both sides have made positive progress towards a resolution of their differences, despite the rejection of the UN Annan Plan for reunification put forward in 2004.

Since 1974, the UN has maintained the border between the two countries, known as the Green Line. After many years of effective isolation, the border is now open, so tourists and local alike can travel freely between north and south Cyprus. Tourist can fly into North Cyprus' own international airport, Ercan, or fly into the south Republic of Cyprus Larnaca airport and drive over the border.

South Cyprus is a member of the EU, whilst North Cyprus is not. The currency in south Cyprus is the Euro, whilst the Turkish lira is used in North Cyprus, with the effect that prices in the north are about a third less than in the south.