Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou said on Friday that Cyprus will enter upcoming informal talks in New York with “political will and determination,” but cautioned against “excessive expectations.” The meeting is scheduled for October 15, between the President of Cyprus, the Turkish Cypriot leader, and the UN Secretary General. The Greek Cypriot side attends the meeting with the hope of reigniting stalled reunification talks.
Speaking at an event commemorating 50 years since the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, Ioannou emphasized the need for a “viable and functional solution” based on international law and UN Security Council resolutions. He expressed hope for the return of displaced Cypriots to their homes and the withdrawal of Turkish troops, while also acknowledging the deep wounds and unresolved issues stemming from the island’s division.
Ioannou criticized what he called the Turkish Cypriot side’s “intransigence” and “unacceptable demands for sovereign equality and a two-state solution.” He stressed th
at the Greek Cypriot side remains committed to dialogue and a solution that aligns with European and international law principles.
The Minister praised President Nikos Christodoulides’ diplomatic efforts, which led to the UN Secretary-General’s invitation for the informal meeting. He expressed “cautious optimism” about the potential for progress but emphasized that the meeting is not a cause for “triumphalism.” Ioannou reiterated the Greek Cypriot vision for a “prosperous, peaceful, reunited, and free Cyprus” that serves as a pillar of stability in the region.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.
Source: Cyprus News Agency