Cyprus talks remain a top priority for Nicosia, with the government seeking an upcoming informal meeting to serve as a stepping stone towards the resumption of negotiations on the Cyprus issue.
Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis said the aim is not simply to hold another informal gathering, but to use it as a “springboard” for the announcement of renewed negotiations, provided all sides show the necessary political will.
He stressed that Cyprus is approaching the process with a clear objective and a sense of urgency, describing the current period as a “critical moment” for the Cyprus talks.
UN initiative and planned meetings
Referring to recent developments, Letymbiotis said UN Secretary-General António Guterres presented a new initiative in March aimed at restarting negotiations.
He added that the period since then has been used for consultations at various levels, with efforts focused on preparing the ground for a new informal meeting, possibly scheduled for late July or early August.
The government’s position, he noted, is that the informal meeting should lead directly to the announcement of a return to substantive Cyprus talks.
EU dimension and Turkey relations
Letymbiotis reiterated that Cyprus does not stand as an obstacle to Turkey’s European path, stressing that the country aligns itself fully with EU positions.
He underlined that the message to Ankara is clear: progress in Cyprus talks is a prerequisite for deeper EU–Turkey engagement.
“The road is open,” he said, adding that constructive steps on the Cyprus issue must come first.
Foreign policy and strategic positioning
The spokesperson highlighted Cyprus’ evolving role in regional diplomacy, describing the country as a reliable partner in the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East.
He pointed to strengthened relations with the United States, saying bilateral ties are currently at their highest level.
Letymbiotis also referenced Cyprus’ participation in humanitarian initiatives, including the “Amalthia” framework, as evidence of the country’s growing international credibility.
Security and regional cooperation
Referring to recent regional tensions, he mentioned a drone incident near the British Bases during the broader Iran–Israel–US escalation, noting that Cyprus maintained stability throughout.
He said European partners reacted immediately during the crisis, including support from Greece, France, Italy and the Netherlands, describing it as a strong signal of EU solidarity.
Wider diplomatic outreach
Letymbiotis also referred to high-level visits across the Middle East, including the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Israel, Palestine, Egypt and Lebanon, aimed at strengthening Cyprus’ regional ties.
He added that Cyprus continues to act as a bridge between the EU and neighbouring regions, a role increasingly recognised internationally.
He also highlighted the recent EU informal summit held in Cyprus, where European and regional leaders engaged in joint discussions for the first time in this format.
Diaspora and international role
Closing his remarks, the spokesperson praised the Cypriot diaspora, saying it plays a leading role in supporting national strategy and international outreach.
He also referenced growing cooperation frameworks involving Cyprus, Greece, Israel and other partners, describing them as examples of expanding regional coordination.
Source: CNA
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