Nicosia: The Greek Cypriot side is actively working to establish conditions conducive to the resumption of direct negotiations for a comprehensive resolution of the Cyprus issue, based on the United Nations' agreed framework, the accumulated negotiating acquis, and the principles, values, and legal order of the European Union, Deputy Government Spokesperson Yiannis Antoniou announced on Thursday evening.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Antoniou, speaking on behalf of Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides at an anti-occupation rally organized by the Latsia-Geri Municipality, assured attendees that resolving the Cyprus issue remains a top priority for both the President and his government. Antoniou highlighted the recent appointment of European Commission Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto as the EU Special Representative for Cyprus as evidence of the European Union's heightened interest, which the government is relying on for progress in negotiations and the integration of the EU acquis into a potential settlement.
Antoniou emphasized the government's support for resuming talks, initiated through persistent efforts, and expressed reliance on the political will of the United Nations Secretary-General and the European Union's interest. He highlighted the linkage between EU-Turkey relations and the Cyprus issue as a catalyst for achieving concrete outcomes. The government's goal, he stated, is to transform the Republic of Cyprus into a modern state, an EU and UN member, offering all residents security and prosperity akin to other European citizens.
Acknowledging the challenging circumstances, Antoniou stressed the obligation to continue efforts to ensure future generations inherit a free homeland, devoid of occupation troops, guarantors, and intervention rights. Reflecting on the events of 1974, Antoniou remarked that, 52 years after the 'tragic summer,' the sacrifices of those who defended Cyprus' freedom and independence will be vindicated only through ending the occupation and reunifying the country.
Antoniou also addressed the lingering impact of the 1974 coup and subsequent Turkish invasion, describing them as ongoing wounds on Cyprus' body and collective conscience. Cyprus has remained divided since 1974, with Turkey occupying its northern third. Numerous rounds of UN-led peace talks have failed to produce results due to Turkish intransigence. The last negotiations in July 2017 at Crans-Montana ended without conclusion.
Following informal meetings in 2025 and a hiatus, deliberations are underway for a new meeting in a broader format as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' term nears its end. Mara Angela Holgun, Guterres' Personal Envoy on Cyprus, is engaging with the parties, and Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto serves as the European Commission's Special Representative for Cyprus, succeeding EU special envoy Johannes Hahn.