Nicosia: The European Commission clarified on Tuesday, through its spokesperson Louise Bogey, that Executive Vice-President of the European Commission and EU Special Representative for Cyprus Raffaele Fitto will engage with all relevant stakeholders and interlocutors, in order to prepare the ground for the resumption of negotiations and to support a comprehensive and lasting solution, including through building trust among all stakeholders and interlocutors, specifying that this concerns, in particular, both Cypriot communities.
According to Cyprus News Agency, during the midday press briefing, the spokesperson addressed complaints from the Turkish Cypriot side, which claimed that it had not been consulted in advance regarding Fitto's appointment and accused the EU of attempting to assume a role without engaging both sides. In response, the spokesperson emphasized the EU's firm commitment to the reunification of Cyprus, in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and in line with the principles, values, and legislation of the EU.
The spokesperson further outlined that Fitto, as the Special Representative for Cyprus, will contribute to the settlement process within the UN framework, working closely with the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy on Cyprus, Maria Angela Holgun Cu©llar. Fitto's appointment, she noted, was based on extensive contacts with relevant interlocutors.
Commission deputy spokesperson Olof Gill described Fitto as an experienced politician with considerable experience in governance, regional cooperation, and institutional dialogue. Gill emphasized that Fitto was appointed due to his skills and experience, which the European Union believes are crucial for advancing the negotiations.
While no specific developments were announced regarding potential meetings between Fitto and Maria Angela Holgun, diplomatic sources informed CNA that such a meeting could occur in July. These sources highlighted the importance of Fitto's appointment, noting his close ties with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and his influence among European colleagues. Fitto's understanding of European affairs and the regional political landscape is expected to facilitate his collaboration with Holgun and expedite the resumption of talks.
Cyprus has remained divided since 1974, following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite numerous UN-led peace efforts, negotiations have consistently stalled. The most recent talks, held in July 2017 at Crans-Montana, Switzerland, ended without resolution due to Turkish intransigence.
With informal meetings having occurred in 2025 and a subsequent hiatus, plans are underway to convene a new meeting in a broader format as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres approaches the end of his term. Mara Angela Holgun, Guterres' Personal Envoy on Cyprus, has been tasked with engaging the parties in this renewed effort.