Nicosia: I will do everything I can to support the Greek Cypriots and the Turkish Cypriots in this very important moment, said the United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, following his meeting on Tuesday with the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Guterres emphasized his commitment to aiding the resolution of the Cyprus conflict. He described his visit as an act of solidarity with the people of Cyprus, underscoring his dedication to achieving a resolution. "This is a visit of solidarity with the people of Cyprus and to show my strong commitment to make sure that we are able to have finally a solution in Cyprus," Guterres stated while exiting the Presidential Palace.
Guterres acknowledged that the resolution depends largely on the Cypriots themselves but highlighted the role of guarantors in the peace process. He reiterated his readiness to support both Greek and Turkish Cypriots during this critical time, stressing the importance of their cooperation. "It depends obviously on the Cypriots themselves, also the guarantors have a role to play, but I will do everything I can to support the Greek Cypriots and the Turkish Cypriots in this very important moment," he emphasized.
The island of Cyprus has remained divided since 1974, following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite numerous rounds of United Nations-led peace talks, progress has been elusive, with the latest discussions in July 2017 at Crans-Montana, Switzerland, ending without resolution due to ongoing Turkish intransigence.