Nicosia: The U.S. Embassy in Nicosia reiterated its support for ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the Cyprus problem, welcoming new momentum from the United Nations and the European Union.
According to Cyprus News Agency, in a written statement to the Cyprus News Agency on the anniversary of the 1974 Turkish invasion, the embassy welcomed UN Secretary General Guterres’ ongoing efforts to advance dialogue with a view to reaching a just and sustainable resolution of the island’s longstanding division.
The U.S. Embassy expressed encouragement that the UN Secretary-General’s reappointment of Personal Envoy Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar will bring the parties closer to achieving a resolution. The statement highlighted the embassy’s approval of news from the broader format meeting in New York, which discussed continued plans for engagement and additional initiatives to build trust in Cyprus. The U.S. hopes for further progress to improve the daily lives of all Cypriots.
The Embassy voiced support for the Euro
pean Commission’s recent appointment of Johannes Hahn as EU Envoy for Cyprus, which is seen as providing momentum to the Cypriot-led, UN-facilitated efforts. The U.S. reaffirmed its longstanding policy, emphasizing its commitment to the reunification of Cyprus in line with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.
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. The latest round of negotiations in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.
A second informal meeting on Cyprus in a broader format was held in New York on July 16-17, 2025. Another meeting is anticipated later this year, to follow up on initiatives agreed by the parties. UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated these initiatives demonstrate a commitment to continuing a dialogue. Guterres also announced plans to meet jointly with Cyprus leaders during the General Assembly high-level week in S
eptember.
The two sides in Cyprus continue discussions on outstanding issues, including the opening of crossing points and a solar energy installation in the buffer zone. They also agreed to cooperate on several issues, including the exchange of cultural artifacts. Maria Angela Holguín, the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Cyprus, will continue her efforts.
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 Holguín.