Limassol: The recent resolution concerning the renewal of the UN peacekeeping force mandate in Cyprus has reaffirmed the agreed solution basis, emphasizing that there is no alternative solution to the Cyprus problem, stated Menelaos Menelaou, the negotiator for the Greek Cypriot side. Speaking at the annual 'Study Days' conference organized by the Left in the European Parliament, Menelaou highlighted the importance of consolidating the ongoing process between the two communities.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Menelaou addressed the conference during a panel discussion on open conflicts in the Eastern Mediterranean. He provided an overview of the Cyprus problem since the Crans Montana conference, noting the change in leadership within the Turkish Cypriot community. He emphasized the need to redouble efforts to invigorate the negotiation process, following the emergence of forces supporting the agreed solution framework.
Menelaou detailed initiatives taken after changes in the political landscape, including meetings under UN auspices between the leaders of the two communities. He highlighted a significant shift from demands for sovereign equality and two-state solutions towards political equality. Despite not fully reaffirming the basis, Menelaou noted that recognizing political equality marked a step forward, presenting an opportunity to build on past progress.
The negotiator criticized the Turkish Cypriot leadership's failure to reaffirm the solution basis, attributing this to Ankara's stance favoring a two-state solution. He stressed the importance of continuing efforts to reach an expanded meeting under the UN Secretary-General to resume negotiations, emphasizing the need to overcome obstacles.
Menelaou mentioned the conditions set by the Turkish Cypriot side, likening them to agreeing on divorce terms before marriage. He reiterated the need for holistic confirmation of a federal solution basis and convergence achieved until 2017, advocating for broader meetings under the UN Secretary-General and the opening of additional crossing points.
He further emphasized that the recent UNFICYP resolution confirmed the agreed basis, sending a clear message against alternative solutions. Menelaou warned that any alternative would be detrimental to Cyprus and the region's interests, stressing the importance of resolving the Cyprus problem based on principles and the agreed solution.
The session also examined the case of Palestine, with European Left MEPs scheduled to visit Varosha, a fenced-off area in the Turkish-occupied town of Famagusta. Cyprus has remained divided since 1974, following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite repeated UN-led peace talks, a resolution remains elusive due to Turkish intransigence, with the latest negotiations in 2017 at Crans-Montana ending without results.
The UN Secretary-General hosted informal meetings on Cyprus in 2025, with further engagements anticipated. Mara Angela Holgun and former European Commissioner Johannes Hahn are expected to contribute to the settlement process, working alongside Holgun.