Nicosia: President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides stated that despite current challenges, there is a strategic plan to create the conditions necessary for the resumption of Cyprus peace talks.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides made these remarks while addressing journalists at the Pancyprian Public Servants’ Trade Union Annual Conference in Nicosia. He highlighted the difficulties encountered during his recent meeting with Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar, who declined to discuss or make decisions on issues previously promised to the UN Secretary-General.
President Christodoulides clarified that the current focus on Confidence Building Measures is not the ultimate aim, explaining that the UN Secretary-General’s decision to appoint a Personal Envoy after May 12th in Geneva is part of a broader strategy to advance the talks. He reiterated that Tatar’s refusal happened in the presence of the UN’s Special Representative, emphasizing the complexity of the situation.
The President expressed optimism that continued efforts may soon lead to developments favorable for both Confidence Building Measures and the resumption of the core Cyprus talks. He underscored the importance of the international community in shaping these conditions and noted that persistent efforts, clear goals, and strategic planning are essential.
President Christodoulides mentioned that actions are being taken consistently, referencing the preparations made ahead of the recent Geneva meeting. He also commented on the long-standing division of Cyprus since Turkey’s invasion in 1974, stressing the increasing difficulty as time progresses.
The President reaffirmed his commitment to the Cypriot people to explore every possible avenue for peace, stating that even though the path is challenging, a clear strategy is in place to achieve progress. The UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres has announced an informal meeting on Cyprus in a broader format scheduled for late July, intended to further discussions initiated in Geneva in March.
Moreover, the UN Secretary-General has appointed Mara Angela Holgun Cu©llar as his Personal Envoy on Cyprus, aiming to reengage with involved parties and advise on next steps. Holgun’s experience and previous work on Cyprus are expected to be instrumental in the ongoing peace efforts.