Achna:President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, reiterated the Greek Cypriot side's readiness to resume Cyprus peace talks, emphasizing there is no alternative to resolving the issue. Speaking at an event in Achna village in the Famagusta district, he assured that efforts would continue to end the occupation and reunite the island.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the President highlighted the Greek Cypriot side's proposals, which address issues raised by the UN Secretary-General concerning methodology, confidence-building measures, and the Cyprus problem's substance. He expressed that these proposals could pave the way for renewed negotiations, and he plans to convey this message to the Turkish Cypriot leader in their upcoming meeting.
The President noted that 52 years after the Turkish invasion, Cyprus remains illegally occupied, underscoring the problem's substance, given Cyprus's status as a UN and EU member state where violations of individual rights and freedoms persist.
Christodoulides emphasized that ending the occupation has been his top priority since taking office. Despite existing challenges, he affirmed that negotiation efforts continue within the agreed framework and negotiation acquis.
He asserted that there is no 'Plan B' for resolving the Cyprus problem, citing the UN Secretary-General's political will and EU support as factors for optimism. He called on the Turkish side to engage in talks, suggesting that genuine political will could lead to Cyprus's reunification.
Reflecting on Achna village, the President acknowledged the resilience of refugees who found shelter there after the invasion. Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Despite numerous UN-led peace talks, a resolution has not been achieved due to Turkish intransigence.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres announced plans for another meeting in a broader format, with no specified timeline, having secured consensus from both sides and guarantor powers. María Angela Holguín and Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto are engaged in preparation roles for the talks.