Washington: The resumption of Cyprus talks from where they left off in Crans-Montana remains our primary objective, Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis said on Wednesday evening, pointing out that any discussion of a two-state solution or one outside the UN framework is completely unacceptable.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Letymbiotis, who was addressing the PSEKA Conference in Washington, began by expressing deep gratitude to the organisers, stressing that their work ‘transcends generations’ and constitutes ‘a living force that connects our shared values with a common vision for the future.’ Referring to the Cyprus problem, he noted that “for 51 years, our island has lived with the wound of the invasion,” emphasizing that “President Christodoulides has placed the Cyprus issue at the top of his political agenda-not as a slogan, but as a mission.”
He referred to diplomatic efforts to involve the EU, particularly the appointment of Johannes Hahn as the EU’s Special Envoy and Mara ngela Holgun Cu©llar by the UN Secretary-General. “A diplomatic initiative has begun for more active and substantial involvement of the European Union in the UN’s efforts. A more active EU role can provide practical incentives,” he noted.
He also said that Cyprus’ goal is “to move decisively toward the resumption of negotiations” on the basis of the UN framework. “The resumption of negotiations from where they left off in Crans-Montana remains our primary objective,” he said. He made clear that “any discussion of a two-state solution or one outside the UN framework is completely unacceptable,” stressing that “such efforts are rejected by the United Nations, the European Union, and by all who believe in international legitimacy.”
Letymbiotis went on to say that “the occupied towns, the closed-off quarter of Varosha, the desecrated churches, and cemeteries are not just symbols of illegal occupation. They are open wounds that speak to the world about the urgent need for justice and redemption.” And yet, he added, “we do not ask only for justice. We offer a vision of our future. We reach out to our Turkish Cypriot compatriots with a sincere message. Their future too lies in a reunited European Cyprus, where all citizens can live in peace, prosperity, and dignity, as they deserve.”
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results due to Turkish intransigence. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively. UN Secretary General announced that an informal meeting on Cyprus in a broader format will be held at the end of July, following a similar meeting in Geneva, on March 17-18. The two sides agreed to proceed with a number of initiatives, involving the opening of crossing points, the creation of a Technical Committee on Youth and other initiatives in the buffer zone and throughout the island.
The UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres announced in early May the appointment of Mara Angela Holgun Cu©llar of Colombia as his Personal Envoy on Cyprus, who is tasked to reengage with the parties in order to work on next steps on the Cyprus issue and advise him. Holgun completed a previous assignment as Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General on Cyprus from January to July 2024. The European Commission designated Johannes Hahn, a former European Commissioner, as Special Envoy for Cyprus to contribute to the settlement process, in close cooperation with Holguin.
In his address, the Government Spokesperson recalled that “two years ago, this very conference marked my first official visit to the United States,” and noted that today, “I feel not only the continuity of our common struggle but also the significant progress we have made together.” He conveyed greetings from President Nikos Christodoulides and highlighted the strengthening of U.S.-Cyprus relations, stating that “the United States and Cyprus are closer today than ever before.”
As evidence of this progress, he pointed to the Cyprus-US Strategic Dialogue launched in June 2024 and President Christodoulides’ visit to the White House-the first since 1996-which he described as “much more than symbolic.” As he stated: “It confirmed our role as a reliable and trusted partner in the Eastern Mediterranean.”
He placed particular emphasis on the ‘Amalthea’ initiative, the maritime humanitarian corridor from Cyprus to Gaza, saying: “Cyprus has shown not only that it can be a reliable partner, but also that it can lead, act, and make a difference.”
Letymbiotis also noted the “significant and tangible progress” on Cyprus’ inclusion in the Visa Waiver Program, describing it as “a long-standing goal of our diaspora” that is now “closer than ever.” He referred as well to Cyprus’ economic progress, pointing out that “our growth rate remains among the highest in the eurozone,” that “unemployment is at a historic low” and public finances “are stable, with surpluses being reinvested in education, health, and infrastructure.” As he stressed: “This is policymaking that delivers results.”
On Cyprus’ investment strategy, he said that through “a targeted strategy of economic diplomacy, Cyprus attracts high-value investments, promotes innovation, and supports talent across all sectors.” “No progress has been accidental. It is the result of a clear and determined political will. A vision for Cyprus as a regional pillar of cooperation, stability, and prosperity,” he said. He also referred to President Christodoulides’ recent visit to the United States to promote Cyprus as an investment destination, noting that “there was concrete interest” and “early indications are extremely encouraging.”
In that context, he highlighted the “Minds in Cyprus” campaign launched in London in May, describing it as “more than a Brain Gain strategy,” calling it “a national effort to reunite Cyprus with its scientists, entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals living abroad.” Its message is “a call to all Cypriots who carry our homeland in their minds and hearts, to become part of the new chapter we are writing together.”
He further stressed efforts to restore Cyprus’ international image, through “close cooperation with international partners, including the FBI,” and emphasized that “Cyprus is turning the page-decisively and credibly-because integrity is the foundation of trust. And trust is the foundation of investment.”
The Government Spokesperson underscored the role of the diaspora, saying that “the history of Cyprus is incomplete without its people, wherever they may be.” He expressed “not only gratitude but deep admiration” for the struggle of Cypriots, adding with emotion: “The longing for return, for freedom, for justice remains alive, unwavering, undiminished.”