Nicosia: The Turkish side is quite inventive in placing obstacles in the way of every effort of the Republic of Cyprus, in relation to the humanitarian initiative “Amalthea”, noting at the same time that the implementation of the initiative in this particularly sensitive field and during this time has its own importance and sends a specific message.
According to Cyprus News Agency, in an interview in the Sunday edition of “Phileleftheros” newspaper, Kombos describes a multifaceted campaign of obstruction, including “a variety of deterrent efforts, both conventional and asymmetric, whether through diplomatic pressure on third parties, or by trying to create doubts about the feasibility” of Cyprus’ plans.
Despite these hurdles, Kombos highlighted the success of the initiative, which has garnered positive international attention. He framed the aid corridor as a victory for Cyprus itself, asserting it demonstrates the nation’s capacity to act as a credible and constructive regional player. “The fact that the Republic of Cyprus managed to design, implement, and continue this effort in this particularly sensitive field and during this time has its own importance and sends a specific message,” he says.
Addressing domestic criticism of the government’s handling of the Middle East crisis, Kombos noted that the initiative’s positive reception from the international community, including the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah and friendly Arab nations, serves as a definitive answer.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs warns against a false sense of security on the island, linking Turkey’s actions to the ongoing division of Cyprus. “Let’s not have the delusion of normality. We are facing an existential threat,” he stressed, urging vigilance. “It would be irresponsible to ignore reality” he stresses. He gives the example of five Greek Cypriots who have been illegally held in the Turkish occupied areas of the island, condemning the action.
Regarding the Cyprus problem, Kombos affirms that the government has been proactive in trying to create momentum for a return to the negotiating table. However, these efforts continue to be met by the “barren reaction of the other side.” He reiterates Nicosia’s unwavering position, stating that any solution must be reached within the established framework of the United Nations. “The only framework is that of the UN Security Council. There can be nothing else for us,” he concludes, pointing out that this is the position shared by the European Union and the wider international community.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results due to Turkish intransigence. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.
A second informal meeting on Cyprus in broader format was held in New York, on July 16-17, 2025, after a first one in March 2025. Another meeting is anticipated later this year, to follow up on initiatives, agreed by the parties, which the UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres said they demonstrate a commitment to continuing a dialogue on the way forward. Guterres also announced that he would meet jointly with Cyprus leaders during the General Assembly high-level week, in September.
The two sides in Cyprus continue discussions on outstanding issues, including the opening of crossing points and a solar energy installation in the buffer zone. They also agreed to cooperate on a number of issues, including the exchange of cultural artifacts, while Maria Angela Holgun, the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Cyprus, will continue her efforts.
The European Commission designated Johannes Hahn, a former European Commissioner, as Special Envoy for Cyprus to contribute to the settlement process, in close cooperation with Holgun.