Communist candiate wins Southern Cypriot presidential election

Communist Akel Party leader Dimitris Hristofyas' unofficial win in yesterday's presidential election in Southern Cyprus is expected to strengthen hopes for a solution to the Cyprus issue. During his campaign, Hristofyas, known to have a softer stance on the issue than his predecessor Tassos Papadopoulos, pledged to meet with Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) President Mehmet Ali Talat with an eye to restarting talks. Talat telephoned Hristofyas to congratulate him, and both reiterated their willingness to meet as soon as possible. Hristofyas is set to be the first communist president in European Union history.