Cyprus and Israel: Build Slowly and Solid

However, as Cyprus and Israel reach out to build that relationship, the change in policy will require a deeper change in orientation toward each other and perhaps toward the region. This is a difficult process that needs to take place not only in the political echelon and public opinion (where strong anecdotal evidence suggests it is gaining ground) but also among the diplomatic and security elites. In both countries the security elites continue to focus on Turkey in a way that can tilt decision making. For the Cypriots, there is aversion to taking steps that may directly or indirectly strengthen Turkey’s relationships in the region. For Israelis, there is still a hope in the hearts of some that the relationship with Turkey can somehow be revived. Here is the part of the process of change that cannot be rushed if it is to be done effectively.

Read more: Cyprus and Israel: Build slowly and solid | Ed Rettig | Ops & Blogs | The Times of Israel http://blogs.timesofisrael.com/cyprus-and-israel-build-slowly-and-solid/#ixzz354HKQGhj