UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres wants either to achieve meaningful progress towards a Cyprus settlement during his term or, if that is not possible, leave his successor a process that has reached the “last mile”, diplomatic sources told the Cyprus News Agency (CNA).
The sources said Guterres believes it is important to maintain the momentum built in recent months so that the next UN Secretary-General inherits a process with substantial progress already achieved.
They added that Guterres has a unique understanding of the Cyprus issue, having outlined the core elements of the negotiations in 2017 through the six-point framework. This, they said, gives him the experience and continuity needed to try to move the process forward.
Possibility of expanded conference remains open
According to the sources, the prospect of convening a new expanded conference on Cyprus remains significant.
They noted that such a step would require a positive outlook for continuing discussions within the framework set by the United Nations and cannot be considered automatic.
A possible decision to restart formal negotiations would indicate that prior agreement, or at least substantial convergence, had been achieved on key aspects of the Cyprus issue.
The sources also highlighted that the Turkish side has not rejected continuing discussions on Cyprus.
Meeting between leaders seen as significant step
Diplomatic sources described the meeting between President Nikos Christodoulides, Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman and Guterres as an important development.
They said the fact that the three sides sat at the same table demonstrates progress compared with the situation several months ago, when the process was at a standstill.
They added that the increased activity surrounding the Cyprus talks is also linked to the Republic of Cyprus’ strengthened regional role and the European Union’s position.
No dates set for new conference
The sources clarified that no specific dates have been set for a possible expanded conference on Cyprus.
The next steps will depend on Guterres’ ongoing contacts on the island and his assessment of whether the necessary conditions exist for the next stage of the process.
The UN Secretary-General is seeking to determine whether further movement can be achieved and whether the Cyprus talks can advance towards a renewed negotiating framework.
Also read: Erhürman-Guterres meeting opens dialogue with focus on CBMs and guarantees
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