Nicosia: It is time to deliver on the Cyprus issue, the EU's Special Envoy, Johannes Hahn said on Thursday morning, during his meeting with the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, at the Presidential Palace. "I believe now is time to deliver, after all these difficult moments I think there is now an opportunity, I won't say the last one, but there is an opportunity," Hahn stated, ahead of his meeting with Turkish Cypriot leader, Tufan Erhrman on Friday.
According to Cyprus News Agency, speaking to President Christodoulides, Hahn emphasized that "Europe very much counts on you to find a good relationship with the Turkish Cypriot leader in order to pave the way, not only for the resumption but for a final positive solution" to the Cyprus issue. President Christodoulides responded positively, expressing his commitment to success. He welcomed the EU's Special Envoy alongside Deputy Minister for European Affairs, Marilena Raouna, stating, "we are very glad to have you in this new effort and we really hope that today's meeting... will pave the way for the resumption of talks."
President Christodoulides highlighted the urgency of resuming discussions, noting the 2.5-year delay since the last talks. He stressed the importance of the EU's involvement in achieving a resolution to the Cyprus problem. After their 1.5-hour meeting, Hahn expressed optimism, stating, "We know what should be done and I am very optimistic that a solution could be found on due time."
When questioned about the EU's role in the talks, Hahn clarified that the EU's involvement is crucial and that any solution must include the EU to benefit Cyprus' citizens. Deputy Minister Raouna echoed this sentiment, mentioning Hahn's ongoing efforts, including planned visits to Ankara.
Raouna underscored the significance of Hahn's upcoming meeting with the Turkish Cypriot leader, emphasizing the EU's critical role in any comprehensive solution to the Cyprus issue. She also highlighted the EU's active participation in negotiations, citing Hahn's experience with EU-Turkey relations as beneficial.
Raouna detailed the EU's potential contributions, noting that any solution must align with EU legislation and principles. She recalled the EU's positive impact during previous negotiations and reaffirmed the EU's commitment to supporting Cyprus.
Answering questions about the EU's participation in informal meetings, Raouna stressed the negotiations' foundation in UN resolutions and the EU's role in supporting the UN's efforts. She reiterated Hahn's assertion that the EU's involvement is essential for resolving the Cyprus issue.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite multiple UN-led peace talks, a resolution has remained elusive. Recent efforts, including informal meetings and the involvement of UN and EU envoys, aim to break the deadlock and achieve a sustainable solution.