Turkish Cypriot ‘prime minister’ Unal Ustel has said he wants more checkpoints opened, improvements to reduce long queues at the current ones but also for those crossing to get a real feeling that they are entering the ‘TRNC state’.

He carried out checks at various checkpoints in Nicosia and Famagusta on Monday where he was told that the busiest checkpoint is that in Ayios Dometios, where 13,000 people cross daily – a rate of traffic similar to that at Tymbou (Ercan) airport.

In comments carried by the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), Ustel reportedly cited the important financial benefits offered by the checkpoints.

The delays in crossings were blamed on factors such as staffing shortages, high demand and poor layout of the checkpoints.

He is also reportedly seeking to ensure that those crossing feel as through they are entering ‘the TRNC state’ – likely meaning more emblems and symbols such as flags being installed.