Achna:President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, reiterated the Greek Cypriot side's readiness to resume negotiations on the Cyprus issue, emphasizing the lack of alternatives for resolving the conflict. Speaking at an event in Achna village, within the government-controlled areas of the Famagusta district, he assured refugees of ongoing efforts to end the occupation and reunify the island.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides emphasized that the Greek Cypriot proposals address concerns raised by the UN Secretary-General, focusing on methodology, confidence-building measures, and core issues of the Cyprus problem. He expressed optimism that these proposals could facilitate renewed negotiations and intends to convey this message to the Turkish Cypriot leader in an upcoming meeting.
President Christodoulides highlighted the 52-year period since the Turkish invasion, noting that Cyprus remains illegally occupied. He pointed out Cyprus's membership in the UN and EU, where individual rights and freedoms are systematically violated. Since assuming office, ending the occupation has been his primary focus.
Despite the challenges, the President affirmed that efforts to restart negotiations are ongoing, adhering to the agreed framework and negotiation acquis. He stated that there is no 'Plan B' and resolving the Cyprus issue is the sole option. He noted the political will of the UN Secretary-General and EU support, expressing optimism and readiness for future steps while urging the Turkish side to engage in talks for reunification, contingent on genuine political will.
Reflecting on Achna village, President Christodoulides commented on the resilience of the Cypriot people, who rebuilt their lives there after seeking refuge following the invasion. Cyprus has been divided since 1974, with numerous UN-led peace talks failing to achieve success due to Turkish intransigence, the last round ending in 2017 without resolution.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres plans to convene another meeting in a broader format after adequate preparations with consensus from both sides and guarantor powers. María Angela Holguín is tasked with engaging the parties, and Raffaele Fitto succeeds Johannes Hahn as the EU special envoy for Cyprus.