Leaders describe “fruitful discussion”
Cyprus talks moved forward on Monday, with President Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman describing their meeting as constructive and tasked their representatives to continue discussions.
According to the United Nations, the meeting took place in a positive atmosphere, with both sides engaging in a “fruitful discussion” and exchanging views on key issues and the way forward.
Focus on confidence-building measures
Speaking after the meeting, President Christodoulides said the leaders discussed confidence-building measures and agreed to push negotiations forward through their representatives, aiming to finalise as many issues as possible.
He noted that progress has been made on some matters, though not all, and confirmed that a new meeting is expected towards the end of April.
“We have agreed not to publicly specify which issues have seen progress,” he said, adding that more concrete outcomes may be announced at the next meeting.
UN preparing plan for negotiations
Christodoulides also revealed that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is working on a plan, away from the public eye, aimed at bringing both sides back to the negotiating table.
The president welcomed the UN’s initiative, expressing hope for positive developments and highlighting the importance of resuming formal negotiations.
The UN chief remains in contact with all parties involved, both in Cyprus and internationally, as efforts continue to restart the peace process.
Positive atmosphere confirmed by UN
In a statement, UNFICYP said the meeting was held at the residence of the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative in Cyprus, Khassim Diagne.
It added that both leaders welcomed the UN’s continued engagement on the Cyprus issue and reaffirmed their readiness to support the Secretary-General’s efforts.
The leaders also reviewed progress on trust-building initiatives and instructed their representatives to continue discussions with the aim of resolving outstanding issues.
Also read: Kissinger tapes expose U.S. management of Cyprus in July 1974
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