Nicosia: Nicosia has welcomed the adoption of the 2815/2026 United Nations Security Council resolution on the renewal of the mandate of the United Nations Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) for another 12 months, until January 31, 2027. The government emphasized that UNFICYP's presence in Cyprus is essential as long as the Turkish occupation continues. The Republic of Cyprus plans to continue its cooperation with UNFICYP to ensure effective implementation of its mandate.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also expressed appreciation for the Security Council's ongoing support of the UN Secretary-General's efforts to restart negotiations. These negotiations aim to reach a lasting, comprehensive, and fair resolution to the Cyprus issue based on a bicommunal, bizonal federation with political equality, as outlined in relevant resolutions.
The Ministry highlighted that with resolution 2815/2026, the Security Council reiterated its call for reversing all Turkish actions in the fenced-off city of Varosha and restoring the previous status in Strovilia and the buffer zone. It emphasized the importance of the Security Council's call for reducing tensions as a prerequisite for creating an appropriate climate and building confidence.
The Ministry concluded by expressing hope for a return to negotiations soon, with the goal of achieving a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus issue in line with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third. Multiple rounds of UN-led peace talks have yet to produce results due to Turkish intransigence. The most recent negotiations, held in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana, ended without resolution.
In 2025, the Secretary-General hosted two informal meetings on Cyprus, one in March in Geneva and another in July in New York. A tripartite meeting with Cyprus leaders was also held in late September, coinciding with the end of the UN General Assembly High-Level Week.
Mara Angela Holgun, the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy on Cyprus, is tasked with engaging the parties, while former European Commissioner Johannes Hahn, designated by the Commission as Special Envoy for Cyprus, is also expected to contribute to the settlement process, in cooperation with Holgun.