Nicosia: The European Union is gearing up to play a vital role in the United Nations-led peace process concerning Cyprus, aiming to make significant strides in the coming months. This declaration was made by Raffaele Fitto, the EU's newly appointed Special Representative for Cyprus, following his meeting with President Nikos Christodoulides at the Presidential Palace. Fitto's visit marks the first time an Executive Vice President of the European Commission has traveled to Cyprus since being designated as Special Representative for the country.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the meeting was attended by Cyprus Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos, who emphasized the importance of the EU's involvement in the Cyprus settlement process. Kombos reiterated Nicosia's stance that the EU should play a key role in advancing efforts towards a resolution. Fitto, while acknowledging the significance of his appointment, stressed that it sends a strong political message from the EU regarding its intentions in the UN process on the Cyprus issue.
Fitto expressed the EU's eagerness to participate meaningfully in the United Nations process, highlighting the importance of hearing directly from the involved parties to shape the next phase of his engagement. He conveyed optimism about the prospects for progress, suggesting that significant results could be achieved in the coming months.
Foreign Minister Kombos noted that the meeting focused on the envoy's immediate priorities and future engagements. He described the discussions as constructive, covering both practical steps and plans for future contacts with all parties involved. The timing of Fitto's visit was deemed crucial, occurring shortly after UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres' visit to Cyprus.
Kombos reiterated Cyprus's consistent position that the EU should assume a more active role in resolving the Cyprus issue. He highlighted EU-Turkey relations as a potential leverage point, emphasizing Nicosia's support for this effort within the EU and the UN context. The Foreign Minister also mentioned the expectation of Fitto's meeting with Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman and the ongoing coordination with the EU.
Regarding Fitto's potential visit to Turkey, Kombos stated that the envoy is planning his next steps, with established channels of contact already existing between the EU and Turkey. The appointment of Fitto, Kombos noted, carries considerable significance due to these pre-existing connections.
Kombos acknowledged the timeline as an important factor, given the approaching end of the UN Secretary-General's term, but expressed confidence in the political will and initiatives underway that could result in a positive outcome. He emphasized that achieving progress largely depends on Turkey, given the longstanding division of Cyprus since 1974. Despite previous unsuccessful UN-led peace talks, there remains hope for progress in the ongoing negotiations.