Nicosia: Foreign Minister, Constantinos Kombos, has expressed hope that dialogue on the opening of new crossing points in Cyprus will yield results. Speaking after Thursday's Cabinet meeting, and asked by a journalist about statements by the Turkish Cypriot leader, Tufan Erhurman, regarding the crossing points and whether the government intends to hold any discussions ahead of the informal meeting on the Cyprus issue, Kombos said that issues on the opening of crossing points arise from discussions held at meetings in a broader format. He noted that these issues are discussed there and subsequently in Nicosia.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Kombos emphasized the dynamic nature of the dialogue, expressing optimism that it will produce some results. He stated that the positions of the Greek Cypriot side are well-established and are being discussed actively in ongoing dialogues. Kombos expressed hope for a positive outcome, indicating that this approach forms the basis for the ongoing discussions.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following a Turkish invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite numerous rounds of UN-led peace talks, a resolution has yet to be reached. Recent discussions with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and proposals by Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides have led to an agreement on opening four new crossing points in Cyprus during a meeting in Geneva last March.
The discussions continued in New York on July 16-17, where parties met in a broader format, and the UN Secretary-General noted significant progress. However, President Christodoulides pointed out that decisions were not final, as proposed routes, including one from Athienou village to Aglantzia and another at the Kokkina exclave, required the Turkish army's consent, which was still pending.