Nicosia: 'Based on the current circumstances, we are ready to resume talks from where they left off at Crans-Montana', President Nikos Christodoulides declared following an approximately one-hour meeting with Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhrman. The statement came as both leaders continue to engage in discussions aimed at resolving long-standing issues in Cyprus.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides briefed reporters upon his return to the Presidential Palace, mentioning that the next meeting between the two leaders is expected to take place either on Wednesday or Friday next week. This will follow a meeting between negotiators from both sides. He also suggested the possibility of a joint meeting in New York with the UN Secretary-General or his Personal Envoy, Maria Angela Holguin.
During the briefing, President Christodoulides noted that despite the brief duration of the meeting, it was substantive, focusing on three major issues: methodology, substance, and confidence-building measures. He acknowledged that while there has been progress on some issues, disagreements and different approaches remain on others. These discussions will continue at the next meeting, with negotiations preceding the leaders' discussions.
Addressing the issue of recording convergences, which was expected to be completed by the end of August, President Christodoulides expressed that it is in a very advanced final stage. He anticipated that it would be completed shortly, and the United Nations would then determine the next steps.
Despite some uncertainties, including whether there will be a joint meeting in New York, President Christodoulides emphasized that ongoing discussions are not starting from scratch. He reiterated the focus on specific issues, some of which have common understanding while others require further discussion.
When questioned about the methodology and substance of the talks, President Christodoulides expressed confidence in the clarity of the issues and the path forward. He reaffirmed his commitment to resuming talks from where they left off at Crans-Montana, emphasizing the importance of political will in resolving the Cyprus problem.
Regarding the apparent difference of opinion between himself and Erhrman, President Christodoulides refrained from commenting, stating that Mr. Erhrman would express his views if necessary. He also addressed Erhrman's social media post, noting that such comments do not affect his objective of resolving the Cyprus problem and reunifying the homeland.
In a separate development, President Christodoulides confirmed ongoing consultations regarding the participation of an Egyptian contingent in the Cyprus Independence Day parade on October 1. Discussions are underway between the National Guard and the defense ministries of both countries.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 following Turkey's invasion and subsequent occupation of its northern region. Despite numerous UN-led peace talks, a resolution remains elusive. The most recent negotiations at Crans-Montana in 2017 ended without a conclusive agreement. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed intent to convene another meeting in a broader format, contingent on adequate preparation and consensus from all parties involved.
