Nicosia: The informal meeting addressing the Cyprus issue is set to occur in New York during the latter half of July, as stated by Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis. Letymbiotis mentioned on Monday that the dates might be scheduled earlier than initially proposed.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Letymbiotis confirmed the anticipated timeline for the meeting, underscoring the government’s inclination towards earlier dates within the proposed period. He emphasized that the finalization of the dates was imminent, with official announcements from the United Nations expected soon.
Cyprus remains divided since 1974 following Turkey’s invasion and subsequent occupation of its northern region. Numerous UN-led peace discussions have repeatedly failed, mainly due to what is perceived as Turkish intransigence. The most recent negotiations, held in July 2017 at Crans-Montana, Switzerland, concluded without any resolution.
UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres announced a broader informal meeting on the Cyprus issue to be held in late July, subsequent to a similar meeting in Geneva on March 17-18. Both sides have agreed to advance several initiatives, including opening crossing points and forming a Technical Committee on Youth, aimed at fostering cooperation in the buffer zone and across the island.
In early May, Guterres appointed Mara Angela Holgun Cu©llar of Colombia as his Personal Envoy on Cyprus. Her role includes reengaging with the parties involved to work on forthcoming steps concerning the Cyprus issue and advising the Secretary-General. Holgun previously served as the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General on Cyprus from January to July 2024.
The European Commission has also designated Johannes Hahn, a former European Commissioner, as Special Envoy for Cyprus to aid in the settlement process, working closely with Holgun.