Brussels: The European Commission has expressed its readiness to actively engage in the ongoing efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue, according to a statement from its spokesperson. The Commission is prepared to utilize all available means and tools and participate in relevant meetings, following the UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres's visit to Cyprus.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Maciej Berezstecki, the Commission spokesperson for Cohesion, affirmed the EU's commitment to the reunification of Cyprus. This commitment is based on a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation, aligning with UN Security Council resolutions and EU principles and legislation.
Berezstecki highlighted the EU's readiness to contribute actively to future negotiations and participate in all pertinent meetings. On July 13, the European Commission appointed Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto as Special Representative for Cyprus to aid the settlement process in cooperation with UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy Mara ngela Holgun. Fitto will engage with stakeholders to prepare for negotiations aimed at a comprehensive and lasting solution for Cyprus.
Fitto's visit to Cyprus marks his first in his new role as EU Special Representative. The Commission spokesperson reiterated the EU's unwavering commitment to Cyprus's reunification during discussions about the upcoming five-party meeting.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 following Turkey's invasion and occupation of the northern third. Previous UN-led peace talks have not succeeded due to Turkish intransigence. The most recent negotiations in Crans-Montana in July 2017 ended without resolution.
UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres plans to convene another expanded meeting after adequate preparation, though no timeline has been provided. Mara Angela Holgun is engaging with involved parties, while Raffaele Fitto serves as the European Commission's Special Representative for Cyprus, following Johannes Hahn's tenure.