Nicosia: Nicosia reiterated its call for the resumption of negotiations for a Cyprus settlement under the UN Secretary-General’s good offices before the UN Security Council on Tuesday. Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Andreas Kakouris, expressed renewed political will, determination, and commitment to the agreed UN framework during the Security Council’s high-level open debate on ‘Promoting International Peace and Security through Multilateralism and the Peaceful Settlement of Disputes.’
According to Cyprus News Agency, Kakouris emphasized the importance of fully implementing UN Security Council resolutions and upholding international law in resolving disputes, including the longstanding division of Cyprus. He reaffirmed Cyprus’ commitment to a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality, aligning with Security Council parameters. Kakouris welcomed the Secretary-General’s continuous efforts and expressed support for the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy’s work, highlighting the significance of dialogue in overcoming deadlocks.
Kakouris also welcomed the focus on including women and youth in peace processes and reiterated Cyprus’ support for inclusivity, dialogue, and confidence-building measures between communities. He underscored Nicosia’s commitment to multilateralism and diplomacy, warning against selective adherence to the UN Charter. He praised Pakistan’s presidency for convening the debate and acknowledged the Secretary-General’s commitment to the UN Charter.
Reflecting on Cyprus’ history, Kakouris described the island as a case study of both the promise and frustration of multilateralism, citing the ongoing division due to foreign occupation and the presence of foreign troops. He pointed to key Security Council resolutions affirming Cyprus’ sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing that their inconsistent application undermines peace prospects and the multilateral system’s credibility.
Kakouris concluded by stressing that peaceful settlement involves the just and lasting resolution of disputes based on the rule of law, respect for human rights, and state sovereignty. He called on the Security Council to ensure compliance with its resolutions and to make peaceful outcomes expected.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite repeated UN-led peace talks, results remain elusive due to Turkish intransigence. Recent meetings in New York and anticipated future meetings aim to continue dialogue. Initiatives include discussions on crossing points, solar energy installations in the buffer zone, cultural artifact exchanges, and cooperation facilitated by UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy Maria Angela Holgun and European Commission Special Envoy Johannes Hahn.