Nicosia: The United Nations continues to emphasize its commitment to fostering bi-communal cooperation across Cyprus, with UNFICYP Spokesperson Aleem Siddique affirming the organization’s support during a press conference held at Ledra Palace in the Nicosia buffer zone. The conference, which included representatives from the UN’s Good Offices Mission, UNDP, and UNFICYP’s Civil Affairs team, provided an update on current initiatives and future projects aimed at uniting the island.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Sergiy Illarionov, Coordinator of the UN Good Offices Mission, highlighted the fluctuating political climate over the years and expressed optimism about renewed dialogue following the election of Turfan Erhurman as leader of the Turkish Cypriot community. Illarionov emphasized the UN’s readiness to assist both sides in resuming peace talks.
The press conference shed light on significant projects such as the ongoing work at the Mia Milia wastewater treatment plant and the expansion of the Pedieos Linear Park into the Turkish Cypriot community, both of which are set to progress in the coming months. Siddique underscored the UN’s long-standing efforts to promote peace and cooperation on the island, stating that each collaborative project contributes to a more united and resilient Cyprus.
Illarionov further detailed the role of the UN Good Offices Mission, which has been facilitating technical committees since the 2017 closure of the Conference on Cyprus. He noted that the briefing was intended to clarify the UN’s multifaceted approach to encouraging dialogue and cooperation between the two communities.
The UN’s engagement in Cyprus has increased over the past two years, with the Secretary-General personally involved in dialogue efforts. The appointment of Holgun as the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Cyprus has led to a series of high-level meetings and initiatives aimed at building trust between the two sides.
During the conference, Jakhongir Khaydarov, UNDP Cyprus Head of Office, highlighted the progress of EU-funded projects, including the Cultural Heritage Project and the Local Infrastructure Facility. Khaydarov noted that these initiatives have significantly contributed to the preservation of Cyprus’ shared cultural landmarks and the development of local infrastructure.
The Mia Milia plant project is advancing, with efforts to connect the sewerage network and additional infrastructure to benefit both the Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities. Alexandre Prieto, Project Manager at the Local Infrastructure Facility, confirmed that funding has been secured and that the project is proceeding as planned.
The extension of the Pedieos River project, set to enhance biodiversity and community interaction, is also underway. The project’s first phase is expected to conclude by January 2026, with the second phase starting in April 2026.
Abimbola Aina, Chief of UNFICYP Civil Affairs, highlighted the ongoing efforts to build cooperation and trust between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. Aina pointed out the success of initiatives like the UN Youth Champions for Environment and Peace, which have engaged young leaders in promoting peace and understanding.
The island of Cyprus has remained divided since 1974, following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of the northern third. Despite numerous UN-led peace talks, a resolution has yet to be achieved, with the last negotiations ending inconclusively in 2017 at Crans-Montana, Switzerland.