Nicosia: Announcements regarding the arrival of the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, Maria Angela Holguin, to Cyprus are expected to be made soon, according to Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis. The President’s Office has responded positively to a new date proposed by Holguin for her visit to the island.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Letymbiotis addressed journalists during a media briefing, reminding them that Holguin’s visit was initially scheduled for this week but had to be postponed. The government is awaiting the United Nations’ official announcements concerning the rearrangement.
During the briefing, Letymbiotis was questioned about a complaint concerning the usurpation of a Greek Cypriot property by Turkish Cypriot trade unionist Sener Elcil. He stated that the government could not comment further on matters currently before the courts. He emphasized that cases involving ongoing investigations are not open for discussion.
Addressing the broader issue of property usurpation, Letymbiotis highlighted that the Republic of Cyprus has long been raising concerns about violations of property rights in the EU member state. These issues are a result of the Turkish invasion and occupation that began 51 years ago. He stressed that the usurpation of Greek Cypriot properties is a significant issue, with existing convictions and admissions to charges illustrating Turkey’s attempts to manipulate the situation alongside illegal settlements.
Letymbiotis reiterated that diplomatic efforts focus on preserving fundamental human rights and adhering to international law. Cyprus remains divided since 1974, following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of the northern part. UN-led peace talks have repeatedly failed, attributed to Turkish intransigence. The last negotiation in 2017 at Crans-Montana ended without resolution.
In 2025, the Secretary-General hosted informal meetings on Cyprus, including in Geneva and New York, with a tripartite meeting at the UN General Assembly’s end. A broader informal meeting is anticipated later this year. Holguin’s role is to engage with the parties, while former European Commissioner Johannes Hahn will also contribute to the settlement process in collaboration with Holguin.