The National Council of Cyprus convened on Monday under President Nikos Christodoulides, who briefed political party leaders on the latest developments regarding the Cyprus issue and ongoing diplomatic efforts led by the United Nations.
The meeting, which began around 10:00 and concluded at approximately 12:15, took place with the Council in its new composition following the May parliamentary elections.
UN-led efforts and renewed diplomatic momentum
According to the briefing, discussions focused on initiatives by UN Secretary-General António Guterres to convene an expanded informal conference aimed at restarting negotiations on the Cyprus problem.
Participants were informed about ongoing contacts and diplomatic consultations led by the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy María Ángela Holguín, who is expected to return to Cyprus following further regional engagements.
Following the National Council meeting, party leaders issued statements outlining their positions on the evolving diplomatic process.
DISY calls for unity and strategy
DISY President Anita Demetriou stressed the need for unity and careful strategy, stating that new opportunities may be emerging but must be handled with seriousness and coordination.
She highlighted the importance of EU involvement and reiterated support for appointing a European Union special envoy to the Cyprus issue.
AKEL calls for continued negotiations
AKEL Secretary-General Stefanos Stefanou said the Greek Cypriot side should consistently reaffirm its political will to engage in negotiations.
He emphasized that talks should resume from where they stopped in 2017, preserving previous convergences and the UN framework established at Crans-Montana.
ELAM calls for clearer preconditions
ELAM President Christos Christou called for clear preconditions and defined objectives before any new round of negotiations begins, reiterating the party’s opposition to a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation model.
DIKO supports UN initiative
DIKO President Nicolas Papadopoulos expressed support for efforts to convene a broader international conference under the UN Secretary-General.
He also stressed the role of the European Union in exerting pressure and encouraging constructive engagement from Turkey in future talks.
ALMA describes “positive momentum”
Former Auditor General Odysseas Michaelides described the current UN initiative as a “positive window of opportunity,” noting that the timing of renewed efforts could prove significant for the future of the Cyprus issue.
A cautious but active diplomatic phase
The National Council of Cyprus meeting reflects a renewed period of diplomatic activity, with political leaders broadly acknowledging emerging opportunities while maintaining differing views on strategy and conditions for future negotiations.
All parties, however, emphasized the importance of continued engagement, international involvement, and careful management of the next steps in the Cyprus peace process.
Also read: Fidias in new National Council, Nicos Anastasiades absent
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
