Nicosia: The Greek Cypriot side expects an accurate reflection of the real facts in the United Nations Secretary-General’s reports concerning his good offices and the UNFICYP’s mandate, according to Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis, who shared these views with the Cyprus News Agency. Letymbiotis emphasized the importance of distinguishing between the defensive actions of the Republic of Cyprus and the military violations by Turkey, which he described as an occupying force on the island.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Letymbiotis reiterated that despite ongoing challenges, the Greek Cypriot side is committed to maintaining a constructive environment and supports initiatives by the UN Secretary-General. He highlighted the significance of the upcoming multilateral conference on Cyprus as a crucial step towards resuming peace negotiations while expressing concern over Turkey’s continued provocative actions that undermine potential progress.
The spokesperson reaffirmed Cyprus’s commitment to international law and UN resolutions, aiming for a viable and functional solution to the Cyprus problem based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality, as outlined by Security Council resolutions. Letymbiotis also expressed support for the initiatives of the Secretary-General and his personal envoy.
Further, Letymbiotis stressed that the Republic of Cyprus demonstrates a constructive stance through actions that enhance the daily lives of all Cypriots, including Turkish Cypriots, by facilitating access to state services and healthcare. He mentioned the work of technical committees in areas such as cultural heritage, education, environment, youth, civil society, and gender equality.
The spokesperson conveyed to the Cyprus News Agency that ongoing violations in the buffer zone persist, while Turkey continues to bolster its military presence in the occupied areas and adhere to policies contradicting UN resolutions. He urged all parties to exhibit the necessary political will to create conditions conducive to resuming talks.
Cyprus has remained divided since 1974, following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks, a resolution has yet to be reached. The latest negotiations, held in July 2017 at Crans-Montana, Switzerland, concluded without success.
On October 15, 2024, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres hosted an informal dinner with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar in New York, encouraging the leaders to bridge gaps and rebuild trust to facilitate a settlement. During the meeting, President Christodoulides and Tatar agreed to hold an informal meeting in a broader format soon, under the Secretary-General’s auspices, to discuss future steps. They also consented to a meeting in Cyprus to explore the possibility of opening new crossings, a prospect still pending.