US Businessmen Defy Embargo Threats

American businessmen, who were warned not to go to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) by the Greek Cypriot Administration leader Tasos Papadopulous, are not only going for one day as planned, but will stay for three. American businessmen, who are going to TRNC to explore investment opportunities between February 17. and 20. will meet also with the cabinet and Cyprus Chamber of Commerce. It was reported that the businessmen on the U.S. mission were mostly from the energy, finance, health and telecommunications sectors. This courageous trip in the face of criticism has been welcomed in Ankara. Ankara also expects U.S. administration to assert its power and launch direct flights to Ercan airport in TRNC. A high-level official said, "If the U.S. wants it, it can do it. The landing of a plane on Ercan airport and the approach of a U.S. ship to Girne (Kyrenia) will force the Greek Cypriots to negotiate a deal."Â