Nicosia: The European Union remains firmly committed to supporting the United Nations-led efforts towards a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus issue, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas said following a phone call on Tuesday afternoon with the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy on Cyprus, Maria Angela Holgun.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Kallas noted in a social media post that she had 'a good call' with Holgun ahead of her visit to Brussels on Wednesday, as well as the upcoming visit of the UN Secretary-General to Cyprus. She emphasized the EU's steadfast commitment to backing UN-led initiatives aimed at resolving the long-standing Cyprus conflict.
The discussions between Kallas and Holgun also touched on 'recent developments on the Cyprus issue' and underscored the importance of sustaining momentum towards achieving a comprehensive settlement. Both officials acknowledged the need to continue their dialogue during the United Nations General Assembly scheduled for September.
Cyprus has been a divided island since 1974, following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third. Efforts to reunify the island through UN-led peace talks have repeatedly stalled, primarily due to Turkish opposition. The most recent negotiations, which took place in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana, ended without an agreement.
Informal meetings held in 2025 were followed by a period of inactivity. However, preparations are currently underway for a broader-format meeting, as the term of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres approaches its conclusion. Mara Angela Holgun, Guterres' Personal Envoy on Cyprus, has been tasked with engaging the involved parties to facilitate progress in the peace process.