London:The British government remains committed to achieving a comprehensive, just, and lasting settlement of the Cyprus issue, based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality, as reaffirmed by UK Minister for Europe, Lord Wood.
According to Cyprus News Agency, in a letter addressed to the Board of British Cypriots' Communications Officer, Doros Partasides, Lord Wood emphasized London's support for the UN Secretary-General's efforts to resume negotiations. He urged all parties to seize the opportunity created by the Secretary-General's visit to Cyprus last July.
Lord Wood highlighted the British government's backing for another informal meeting in the 5+1 format, contingent on adequate preparations in confidence-building measures, methodology, and negotiation substance. He noted the UK's participation in two informal 5+1 meetings in 2025 and stressed the importance of avoiding actions that could increase tensions or undermine trust between the two communities.
The Minister underlined the significance of strengthening civil society and increasing the involvement of women and young people in the peace process. He referred to a meeting held at Wilton Park, England, involving Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot representatives, aiming to foster cooperation and trust between the communities under UN auspices.
Additionally, Lord Wood reiterated Britain's contribution to peace in Cyprus through the deployment of British military personnel to the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP). He concluded by reaffirming the UK's commitment to its responsibilities as a guarantor power and a permanent member of the UN Security Council, pledging continued support for UN-led efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue.
The letter was a response to a communication from the Board of British Cypriots to the British Prime Minister regarding the Cyprus issue. The Board, which promotes Cypriot interests in London, has a history of engaging with senior British officials and international figures involved in resolving the Cyprus issue. Cyprus has been divided since 1974 following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third, with past UN-led peace talks, including the 2017 negotiations at Crans-Montana, failing to reach a conclusive agreement.