Moscow: The Russian Foreign Ministry has expressed optimism about the progress of Cyprus negotiations, following a recent informal meeting in New York on July 16-17. Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova conveyed during a weekly press briefing that the new initiatives agreed upon during the meeting are expected to strengthen trust between the communities involved and provide a significant boost to the negotiation process. The goal is to bring both sides closer to finding common ground.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Zakharova emphasized Russia’s longstanding commitment to a principled approach for resolving the Cyprus issue in line with UN Security Council resolutions. She stressed the importance of the residents of the island finding a final compromise themselves, while considering the legitimate interests of both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots.
Zakharova also highlighted Russia’s ongoing monitoring of the Cyprus situation and the efforts of the UN Secretary-General. The recent New York meeting follows a similar initiative in Geneva and outlines the results and future contact plans up to the end of the year. The island of Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of its northern third, with previous UN-led peace talks failing to produce results.
The second informal meeting in New York in July 2025 aimed to build on previous discussions and demonstrate a commitment to continue dialogue. UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres plans to meet with Cyprus leaders during the General Assembly high-level week in September to further these efforts.
The ongoing discussions between the two sides in Cyprus focus on various unresolved issues, including the opening of crossing points and the establishment of a solar energy installation in the buffer zone. They have also agreed to collaborate on exchanging cultural artifacts. Maria Angela Holgun, the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Cyprus, will continue her efforts in these negotiations.
The European Commission has appointed Johannes Hahn, a former European Commissioner, as Special Envoy for Cyprus to aid in the settlement process, working closely with Holgun.