Cyprus talks progress has entered a new phase, according to President Nikos Christodoulides, who said the island is experiencing its strongest diplomatic activity in many years.
Speaking at the start of a Cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace, Christodoulides said the presence of UN Secretary-General António Guterres in Cyprus was not accidental but the result of a systematic effort launched by the government in March 2023.
UN-backed conference aims for results
The President welcomed Guterres’ involvement and highlighted the UN chief’s intention to convene an expanded conference with the agreement of all sides involved.
Christodoulides stressed that the aim is for the conference to produce results rather than simply take place.
He also pointed to Guterres’ public references to existing convergences and the negotiation acquis, describing them as particularly significant.
According to the President, these references address questions that had remained open regarding the framework and content of a possible settlement.
EU role strengthened in Cyprus process
Christodoulides said the European Union’s role in the Cyprus process is now widely recognised, with involvement focused on two areas: the substance of a possible solution and EU-Turkey relations.
He announced that European Commission Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto, who was appointed as the EU representative for the Cyprus effort, would visit Cyprus and hold meetings with both sides.
Fitto is scheduled to meet Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman as part of efforts to support the process.
Preparations continue ahead of talks
The President said preparations will continue throughout August, with the negotiation acquis forming the basis of the approach for a potential expanded conference.
He added that further meetings with the United Nations are expected, with the aim of reaching the point where the expanded conference can be convened and talks can resume.
Christodoulides said the government believes the resumption of negotiations can take place as soon as possible if the UN Secretary-General determines the conditions are suitable.
Also read: Raffaele Fitto arrives in Cyprus – Meetings with leaders on Friday
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
