The Cyprus reunification talks with the participation of Turkish Cypriot Leader Mustafa Akinci and President of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades will start in Geneva today. From January 9-11, inter-communal talks under the auspices of Espen Barth Eide, the special adviser of the UN secretary-general on Cyprus would be held. <br/><br/>While on January 12th an international conference with the participation of Greece, Turkey and the United Kingdom, which are countries-guarantors of the deal, is set to be held. The EU delegation headed by European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker would also take part in the negotiations.<br/><br/>On Saturday, UN Spokesman Stephane Dujarriche said that Cyprus peace negotiations were at a critical stage as the parties began focusing on issues related to security and guarantees. Cyprus has been partitioned since 1974, when Turkey occupied the island's north, later proclaiming the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.<br/><br/>Turkey maintains military presence in TRNC, which is only recognized by Ankara as an independent state.