Nicosia: The President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, announced on Wednesday that imminent developments will soon signify a new wave of progress on the Cyprus issue. He emphasized that the government's intensive diplomatic efforts are beginning to yield results, aimed at resuming talks for a comprehensive solution to the longstanding dispute.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides shared these insights with journalists during a memorial service for those who perished in the 1974 coup, held at the Church of Saints Constantine and Helen in Nicosia. He highlighted that the current diplomatic activity is the product of diligent and strategic work. "There are several developments. In the coming days, we will hear other news that will demonstrate this activity," he stated, expressing hope that this momentum will soon translate into concrete outcomes.
Reflecting on the coup's anniversary, the President condemned the event, emphasizing its unjustifiable nature. He paid tribute to those who sacrificed for democracy in Cyprus. He further criticized Turkey for exploiting the coup to pursue its longstanding objectives, asserting that his administration has been working to counter these aims since assuming power. The ultimate goal is a functional and viable solution that reunites the Republic of Cyprus, in alignment with European Union principles.
President Christodoulides underscored the importance of the European Union's involvement in the peace process. He recently returned from Paris, where he met with the President of the European Commission, who announced the appointment of Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto as the Special Representative for the Cyprus issue. Christodoulides expressed optimism about the EU's active role, noting that such interest was absent in previous efforts.
When questioned about the timing of Fitto's appointment and potential upcoming developments, the President remained cautious, leaving announcements to the relevant stakeholders. He reiterated the administration's commitment to achieving a solution based on EU laws and values. He expressed satisfaction with the EU's increased interest, attributing it to consistent political will and international engagement.
Addressing speculation about his brief interaction with the Turkish Foreign Minister in Paris, the President clarified that it was a short discussion influenced by recent developments. He dismissed Turkish media reports denying the encounter, asserting that video evidence confirms the exchange.
Discussing the broader context of EU-Turkey relations, President Christodoulides reiterated that any positive developments hinge on substantive progress on the Cyprus issue. He recalled that the European Commission President emphasized the need for a solution in line with EU principles during their recent meeting.
The President concluded by addressing criticism from Turkish-occupied areas regarding the EU's envoy appointment, stressing that the upgraded role of Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto demonstrates the seriousness of the EU's commitment to resolving the Cyprus issue. Cyprus has remained divided since 1974 following Turkey's invasion and occupation of the northern third. Despite numerous UN-led peace talks, a lasting resolution has been elusive due to persistent challenges. As efforts continue, a new meeting in a broader format is anticipated, coinciding with the nearing end of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' term.