Limassol: The government is doing everything in its power to secure a positive outcome in efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue, President Nikos Christodoulides stated, welcoming the visit of the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, Maria Angela Holgun Cu©llar, in Cyprus. This visit is seen as a result of ‘our own systematic efforts,’ he noted.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the President spoke to reporters following a memorial service in the Limassol district, reaffirming his readiness to participate in a trilateral meeting with Holgun and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar, should Tatar respond positively. When asked about a new meeting with Holgun, the President confirmed they would meet again in the coming days, depending on the envoy’s ongoing contacts.
President Christodoulides expressed satisfaction with the government’s efforts on the Cyprus issue, stating they are yielding results. He highlighted that the actions taken have led to the development of having a new personal envoy and an expanded meeting. The President emphasized a forward movement with clear political will, appreciating Holgun’s presence in Cyprus as a testament to consistent efforts.
Holgun is in Cyprus with the aim of preparing for the next expanded meeting, which is hoped to yield positive progress toward resuming negotiations. She is expected to remain in Cyprus for several days and will later hold consultations in Turkey, Greece, the UK, and Brussels to ensure coordinated preparations.
When asked about optimism for a positive result, the President assured that the government is doing its utmost to achieve that. He stated, ‘We know where we want to go, and we are working toward that direction.’
Addressing the evolving framework of European security and concerns about potential Turkish participation, the President advised caution and fact-checking before making statements. He stressed the safeguarding of the Republic of Cyprus’s interests, noting that Turkey’s involvement is not necessarily negative and that strict safeguards are in place to limit Turkey’s participation in relevant programs.
The UN Secretary-General, Ant³nio Guterres, announced an informal meeting on Cyprus in a broader format scheduled for the end of July, following a similar meeting in Geneva. Initiatives discussed include the opening of crossing points and the creation of a Technical Committee on Youth.
The UN Secretary-General appointed Mara Angela Holgun Cu©llar as his Personal Envoy on Cyprus in early May. Her task is to reengage with the parties and advise the Secretary-General on the Cyprus issue. The European Commission also designated Johannes Hahn as Special Envoy for Cyprus to contribute to the settlement process.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed due to Turkish intransigence, with the latest negotiations in July 2017 ending inconclusively.