Nicosia: Greek President Konstantinos Tassoulas emphasized the significance of the Cyprus issue during his visit to Nicosia, marking his first official trip abroad since assuming office. After seven years of inactivity, the matter is once again being addressed by the United Nations.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Tassoulas was welcomed at the Presidential Palace by President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides. A military band paid tribute as the Greek President arrived, and he laid a wreath at the statue of Archbishop Makarios III. The meeting underscores the strengthened ties between Greece and Cyprus, with both leaders expressing optimism about future cooperation.
President Christodoulides highlighted the upgraded relations between Cyprus and Greece, emphasizing the institutionalization of the Supreme Cooperation Council in 2023. This council addresses internal governance issues and regional developments, including the Cyprus issue. He cited the UN Secretary-General’s recent remarks at the Cyprus conference in Geneva, noting the renewed focus on the matter despite challenges.
The Cypriot President also mentioned the upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union, which Cyprus will assume in January 2026. He stressed the importance of bringing Middle Eastern countries closer to the EU and advancing the EU agenda. Christodoulides thanked Greece for its role in Cyprus’s accession to the European Union, calling it a significant diplomatic success.
President Tassoulas expressed his satisfaction with visiting Cyprus and underscored the deep connection between the two nations. He reiterated the importance of the Cyprus issue, now being revisited by the UN after years of inaction. Tassoulas emphasized the goal of reunifying Cyprus within the framework of UNSC resolutions and ensuring the European acquis benefits all inhabitants.
The Greek President also acknowledged the shared history between Cyprus and Greece, particularly in light of Turkey’s invasion and occupation of northern Cyprus 51 years ago. He expressed optimism about the handling of the Cyprus talks by both nations and looked forward to productive discussions on regional developments.
The visit concluded with the awarding of the Grand Collar of the Order of Makarios III to President Tassoulas, the highest honorary distinction of the Republic of Cyprus. Extensive talks between the two delegations followed, focusing on the Cyprus issue and broader regional challenges.
The ongoing division of Cyprus since 1974 and the inconclusive peace talks in 2017 at Crans-Montana underscore the complexity of the situation. The UN Secretary-General announced an informal meeting on Cyprus to be held in July, following a similar meeting in March. Initiatives include opening crossing points and creating a Technical Committee on Youth.
Mara Angela Holgun Cu©llar’s appointment as the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Cyprus aims to reengage parties and advise on next steps. Her previous assignment on Cyprus concluded in July 2024, demonstrating a commitment to advancing the dialogue on this longstanding issue.