Nicosia: Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign and European Affairs, Harris Georgiades, met with British High Commissioner to Cyprus, Michael Tatham, at the House of Representatives to discuss the prospects for a Cyprus settlement and the country’s role amid developments in the Middle East.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Georgiades emphasized that Turkey’s revisionist stance leaves little room for optimism for substantial progress, particularly during the extended meeting in New York at the end of July. He highlighted that the Cyprus issue is closely linked to Turkey’s foreign policy goals. Tatham, on his part, underscored the importance of maintaining dialogue and building trust while reaffirming the UK’s support for a gradual process towards achieving meaningful progress.
Georgiades also addressed the volatile situation in the Middle East, noting Cyprus’ efforts to manage the situation and ensure its security. He stressed the importance of EU involvement, mentioning that enhancing the EU’s role in the Mediterranean is a priority for the upcoming Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU. Tatham acknowledged Cyprus’ strategic role in the region and expressed appreciation for the facilities provided by Cyprus for the evacuation of British nationals from the conflict zone.
The discussion also covered aspects of bilateral relations, including the issue of high tuition fees in universities due to Brexit. Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of its northern third. Repeated UN-led peace talks have yet to yield results due to Turkish intransigence, with the latest negotiations in July 2017 at Crans-Montana ending without conclusion.
UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres announced an informal meeting on Cyprus at the end of July, following a similar meeting in Geneva in March. The two sides agreed to pursue initiatives such as opening crossing points and establishing a Technical Committee on Youth.
In early May, Guterres appointed Mara Angela Holgun Cu©llar of Colombia as his Personal Envoy on Cyprus, tasked with reengaging the parties and advising on next steps. The European Commission has also designated Johannes Hahn as Special Envoy for Cyprus to support the settlement process in collaboration with Holgun.