The Greek Cypriot authorities rejected on Sunday proposals by the Turkish Cypriot leader on state regulations in case of the reunification of Cyprus, local media reported.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded the north in response to a military coup on the island that was backed by Athens. The Turkish Cypriot state is recognized only by Turkey.
UN-mediated talks, aimed at the reunification of Cyprus, are being held between the leaders of the Greek and the Turkish parts of the island.
Earlier this week, Turkish Cypriot President Mehmet Ali Talat handed over his proposals on desirable state regulations to the Greek Cypriot authorities.
"The proposals are admittedly unacceptable. They cannot be a base for discussions," spokesman for the Greek Cypriot government Stephanos Stephanou was quoted by media reports as saying.
According to local papers, Mehmet Ali Talat's proposals focus on the creation of a confederation-like state, while UN resolutions stipulate a federation should be created in the island.
In particular, the Turkish Cypriot leader has proposed to establish the position of vice president, who is to be elected from representatives of the Turkish community. Both the president and the vice president should have a veto right. Besides, Talat has proposed to replace a one-house parliament by a two-house body, with a half of seats in its upper house intended for representatives of the island's Turkish Cypriot minority.
A new round of talks between Talat and Greek Cypriot President Demetris Christofias is scheduled to start on Monday.
ATHENS, January 10 (RIA Novosti)
