Nicosia: Ideas, opinions and formulas that do not constitute a common ground, convergence or agreement by all those involved in the Cyprus solution should not receive special comment, as they are of no particular importance, Minister of Foreign Affairs Constantinos Kombos said on Thursday. He had been asked to comment on press reports of a specific proposal or formula for the solution of the Cyprus problem.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Kombos made these remarks during a press statement on the sidelines of a meeting with the Albanian Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Ferit Hoxha. He emphasized that reports on specific formulas and proposals "should not receive special comment, because they are of no particular importance". Kombos highlighted that the crucial aspect is the conclusion reached by the UNSG personal envoy and the Secretary-General on how to proceed with the Cyprus issue.
Kombos further noted that while everyone can have ideas, opinions, and various approaches, it does not imply that there is a common ground in terms of convergence or agreement by all parties involved. Addressing the upcoming meeting of the UN Secretary-General with his personal envoy Maria Angela Holguin, Kombos stated that it is essential to wait for the briefing and the decisions of the Secretary-General regarding the way forward.
He underscored the importance of readiness among all parties, pointing out that the Cypriot side seeks mobility and the involvement of the European Union through an envoy. Kombos mentioned the need for clarity on several elements and stressed the significance of the meeting between the personal envoy and the UNSG, urging patience for its outcome.
The Minister reiterated Cyprus's readiness to return to the negotiating table on the substance of the Cyprus problem, within the parameters set by the UN Security Council. Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks, a resolution has been elusive due to Turkish intransigence. The last round of negotiations in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended without resolution.
Following informal meetings in 2025 and a subsequent hiatus of several months, discussions are in progress for a new meeting in a broader format, coinciding with the nearing end of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' term. Mara Angela Holgun, Guterres' Personal Envoy on Cyprus, has been tasked with engaging the parties involved.