Nicosia:The Cyprus government is optimistic about reaching a resolution to the Cyprus issue well before the presidential elections scheduled for 2028. Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis expressed this hope during a press briefing, emphasizing the potential for a trilateral meeting with the UN Secretary-General in the near future.

According to Cyprus News Agency, the recent meeting between the leaders of the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities, along with the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy María Ángela Holguín, marked a significant step forward. The meeting laid the groundwork for a new joint meeting with the UN Secretary-General, focusing on the methodology and substance of the Cyprus issue rather than just Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs).

The Spokesperson highlighted the progress made, including the agreement to open two new crossing points and various initiatives in education, cultural heritage, and crisis management. He noted that these achievements are part of a series of proposals submitted by the President of the Republic. The aim is to build on these advancements to create conditions for resuming negotiations from where they left off in 2017.

Further discussions are ongoing regarding the opening of additional crossing points and demining efforts, with the Greek Cypriot side showing a positive approach. Despite challenges, the Spokesperson expressed readiness for continued engagement and emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue to reach agreements on these issues.

As the UN Secretary-General plans to convene another meeting in a broader format, the Cyprus government remains committed to advancing negotiations, with hopes for a solution before the next presidential elections.