Nicosia: Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis has told CNA that the visit to Cyprus of Undersecretary General of the UN, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, is an important one and demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the UN.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Letymbiotis stated that the visit was planned and that during the meeting with President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides, they will exchange views on the latest developments in the Cyprus problem and the efforts of the UN Secretary General. The discussion will also address the latest violations by the occupying army of the buffer zone. Letymbiotis emphasized the importance of Lacroix's visit, saying it underscores the steadfast commitment of the UN.
Meanwhile, a post on 'X' by UN in Cyprus announced that "Chief of UN Peacekeeping Jean-Pierre Lacroix, just touched down in Cyprus for a 2-day visit of UNFICYP." The post detailed that Lacroix will meet with top UN official on the island, Khassim Diagne, as well as peacekeepers from military, UNPOL, and civil affairs components serving in the buffer zone. He will also engage with representatives from both communities and civil society.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third. Efforts for resolution through UN-led peace talks have not yet achieved success. The most recent negotiations, held in July 2017 at Crans-Montana in Switzerland, ended without a conclusive agreement.