Brussels, 22/06/2005 (Agence Europe) - For the first time direct discussions took place over recent weeks between Greek and Turkish Cypriots on two regulations for aid of EUR 259 million and direct trade with the EU but according to European Commissioner for enlargement, Olli Rehn addressing the European Parliament foreign affairs committee on Tuesday, not agreement was reached. “The parties need more time to pave the way for progress”, explained Mr Rehn, who welcomed the fact that, “It has been the first time that Greek and Turkish Cypriots have discussed mutual problems in a joint event held under an EU umbrella”. The two parties raised the issue of Famagusta and the question of Greek properties in the north of the island, he indicated, in reply to questions. These two secret meetings took place at a technical level on the initiative of the Luxembourg presidency after the election of the pro-European Mehmet Ali Talat at the head of the north of the island, indicated European sources.