Greece says Cyprus talks show progress, Turkey should drop rhetoric

Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras delivers a speech at the launching of an equity fund in cooperation with the European Investment Bank, in Athens, Greece, December 22, 2016. REUTERS/Alkis Konstantinidis

ATHENS (Reuters) - Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras said on Wednesday progress had been made in ending a decades-old stalemate over the division of Cyprus, but urged Turkey to drop 'aggressive rhetoric' to reach a deal.

"We are optimistic but with prudence and responsibility, as this situation merits, we will continue to work hard...and hope that we have positive results in the near future," Tsipras said in a speech in the Greek parliament.