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President Christodoulides Anticipates March Conference on Cyprus

Nicosia: Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides announced his expectation for a conference on Cyprus to occur in March. Speaking at the Epiphany celebrations in Ayia Napa, he expressed his hope for the reunification of the country by 2025, aiming to end the occupation and celebrate the Epiphany in a free Famagusta.

According to Cyprus News Agency, the President emphasized the Greek Cypriot side’s readiness and ongoing preparations for potential developments. He highlighted the urgency of resolving the Cyprus issue, noting that delays contribute to new challenges. The President credited new initiatives for recent progress in the Cyprus problem, expressing optimism that this momentum could lead to the resumption of talks in March.

When questioned about a potential meeting with Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar, Christodoulides noted Tatar’s public agreement with proposed dates, though official confirmation from the United Nations is pending. He mentioned preparations for an extended conference, which he anticipates will be held in March.

Addressing reports on Turkey’s maritime boundaries with Syria and Lebanon, Christodoulides urged caution, particularly regarding Turkish press reports. He acknowledged discussing these concerns with the Greek Premier at a European Council meeting, advocating for more action and less discourse regarding Turkey’s illegal activities, drawing parallels to the Turkish-Libyan memorandum.

Regarding the delineation of the Greek-Cyprus Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), Christodoulides maintained that discretion is advisable. Cyprus has remained divided since Turkey’s 1974 invasion and subsequent occupation of its northern third. Despite numerous UN-led peace talks, a resolution has yet to be achieved, with the last negotiations in 2017 at Crans-Montana ending without consensus.

On October 15, 2024, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres hosted an informal dinner with Christodoulides and Tatar in New York. Guterres encouraged the leaders to bridge their differences and rebuild trust towards a settlement. The leaders agreed to an informal meeting in a broader format and a meeting in Cyprus to explore opening new crossings, under the Secretary-General’s auspices.