Holguin Visits Renovated Cemeteries in Cyprus Amid Ongoing Peace Efforts

Nicosia: Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General on Cyprus, Mar­a Angela Holgu­n, recently visited the Turkish Cypriot cemetery of Tochni and the Greek Cypriot cemetery in the Turkish-occupied village of Palekythro. She was accompanied by the Co-Chairs of the Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage, Ali Tuncay and Sotos Ktoris, according to a statement from the UN in Cyprus.

According to Cyprus News Agency, Holgu­n expressed optimism after hearing from both co-chairs about the restoration process of the cemeteries. This initiative stems from an agreement reached by Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders during an informal meeting in March 2025, hosted by the UN Secretary-General in Geneva.

Holgu­n acknowledged the commitment and support demonstrated by both Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot leaders towards this humanitarian effort. She praised the ongoing restoration work as a project that resonates deeply with many families across the island.

The island of Cyprus has remained divided since 1974, following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite numerous UN-led peace negotiations, a resolution has yet to be achieved. The most recent talks in 2017 at Crans-Montana, Switzerland, concluded without success.

A second informal meeting on Cyprus took place in New York in July 2025, following the initial meeting in Geneva. Another meeting is planned for later this year to assess progress on agreed initiatives. UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres announced his intention to meet with Cyprus leaders during the General Assembly high-level week in September.

Discussions between the two sides continue, focusing on unresolved issues such as opening crossing points and installing solar energy in the buffer zone. They have also agreed to collaborate on exchanging cultural artifacts. Holgu­n remains committed to facilitating these efforts.

The European Commission appointed Johannes Hahn, a former European Commissioner, as Special Envoy for Cyprus. Hahn will work closely with Holgu­n to aid in the settlement process.