The Guterres-Erhürman meeting focused on confidence-building measures (CBMs) and efforts to advance the Cyprus settlement process, during talks between UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman.
The meeting has reportedly concluded, although no statement has yet been issued by Guterres, who is expected to make comments later.
According to a statement from the Turkish Cypriot side, Erhürman welcomed Guterres and his delegation, expressing satisfaction over their visit.
Erhürman highlights commitment to solution process
“I believe you know the strong will of the Turkish Cypriot people for a fair and lasting solution,” Erhürman said at the beginning of the meeting.
He added that his side was making every effort to fulfil its obligations regarding confidence-building measures.
“Unlike the experiences of 2004 and 2017, this time we are working on a new and realistic methodology that will contribute to achieving our common goal,” he said.
Erhürman also expressed support for Guterres’ efforts, saying his side would continue doing its best to contribute to the process.
Guterres reaffirms UN commitment
Guterres said he remained committed to doing everything possible “to support the two communities in their search for a solution”.
The UN Secretary-General also referred to the role of the guarantor powers, noting that a settlement also depends on their contribution.
“We attach great importance to providing any contribution that will strengthen the prosperity of both communities and their determination to reach a solution,” Guterres said.
He added that the UN would continue supporting efforts aimed at taking advantage of current opportunities and advancing the process.
“I am very happy to be here. Thank you for your kind hospitality,” he said.
Delegations present at meeting
Erhürman was accompanied by Turkish Cypriot officials, including Mehmet Dana, Senika Birand Çınar, İpek Borman, Ali Tuncay and Çiğdem Zekai Faruk.
Guterres was accompanied by UN officials including Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix, his Personal Envoy María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar and UN Special Representative for Cyprus and Head of UNFICYP, Khassim Diagne.
Also read: Guterres visit was his decision, not Erhürman’s invitation
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