Nicosia: The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, expressed his satisfaction with the substantive discussions on the Cyprus issue during his meeting with the Turkish Cypriot leader, as highlighted in a statement by the UNFICYP spokesperson. He noted the informal five-party conference's date would be set following the UNSG's personal envoy's upcoming meetings in Athens and Ankara.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the President shared his contentment with the discussions, which he described as productive, emphasizing that the first part of the meeting was dedicated to the core issues surrounding the Cyprus problem. He mentioned that there was specific reference to the United Nations communiqu and UN Security Council resolutions during the meeting.
The President also discussed the confidence-building measures from previous conferences, particularly focusing on the discussions between the Republic of Cyprus and the European Commission about halloumi cheese. Another topic was the construction of a pipeline to transport water from the Mia Milia Wastewater Treatment Plant to the Republic, aimed at benefiting agriculture and the primary sector. This project has been pending since 2011.
Additionally, he highlighted the need for more personnel at the crossing points and mentioned a range of issues he raised with the Turkish Cypriot leader, who committed to responding at the next meeting. These included the missing persons, the enclaved communities, the Maronite and Armenian communities, and various administrative and cultural matters.
The President also touched upon the challenges concerning access to churches in the occupied areas and the role of the European Union in the Cyprus issue's solution process. He emphasized the positive outcome of the meeting, particularly the focus on the substance of the Cyprus issue.
When asked about the anticipated informal five-party meeting, the President stated that the joint communiqu made specific reference to the conference, and its date would be determined after the UNSG personal envoy's meetings in Greece and Turkey. He expressed readiness to participate in the conference whenever it is scheduled.
In response to questions about the crossing points, President Christodoulides noted ongoing disagreements, with proposals for pedestrian-only crossings not accepted. He also addressed issues related to political equality, underscoring its significance as recorded in the UN Security Council resolutions.
Cyprus remains divided since 1974 due to Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third. Efforts for peace, including UN-led talks, have yet to result in a resolution, often hindered by Turkish intransigence. Mara Angela Holgun, the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy on Cyprus, along with former European Commissioner Johannes Hahn, is engaged in facilitating a settlement process.