For several reasons, the economy of the Turkish Cypriot controlled north of Cyprus is not doing very well. In 1983 the Turkish Cypriots proclaimed the ' Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus'. However, the new state was not acknowledged internationally and Northern Cyprus is still occupied by nearly 30 000 Turkish soldiers. These facts are largely responsible for the isolation from other states and a strong economic dependence on Turkey. An embargo against northern Cyprus, imposed by the Greek Cypriots has been successful and has prevented any trade between nortern Cyprus and any other country but Turkey. The economy of northern Cyprus is extremely dependent on Turkey, but it is difficult to give exact figures for the degree of dependence. The possibilities of economic success are additionally reduced by corrupt politicians and businessment.