The outcome of the Cyprus talks is expected to become clear on Wednesday, when United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres announces the results of his latest efforts to advance the Cyprus issue.
Following a dinner meeting with President Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman on Tuesday evening, both sides described the discussions as constructive, with a small step forward reportedly achieved.
The talks continue at the United Nations premises in the Nicosia buffer zone, where the two leaders are due to meet again before the UN chief outlines the outcome shortly before midday.
Wide-ranging agenda on the Cyprus issue
According to information reported by Philenews, the dinner discussions covered all major issues affecting the UN-led process, including the substance of the Cyprus problem, methodology, existing convergences, a broader informal conference and confidence-building measures.
The first round of discussions was described as open and sincere, with negotiations continuing on Wednesday morning.
President Christodoulides expressed hope that the meeting would lead to concrete announcements, saying all key aspects of the Cyprus issue had been discussed.
Christodoulides hopes for concrete announcements
Speaking after the dinner, President Christodoulides said the discussions addressed “substance, methodology, convergences, the broader conference and confidence-building measures.”
He said there had been honest exchanges despite differences between the two sides and expressed optimism that the UN Secretary-General would be able to make specific announcements.
The President also welcomed Guterres’ repeated political commitment to the UN effort to restart negotiations.
Guterres stresses commitment to a solution
Earlier in the day, António Guterres held separate meetings with President Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman.
Following the meetings, the UN chief described his visit as an act of solidarity with the people of Cyprus and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting efforts to reach a settlement.
He said resolving the Cyprus issue ultimately depends on the Cypriots themselves, while also recognising the role of the guarantor powers.
Guterres added that he would do everything possible to assist both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots during what he described as a crucial moment for the island.
Regional stability at the forefront
During his meeting with the UN Secretary-General, President Christodoulides stressed the need for positive developments in Cyprus, the wider region and internationally.
He thanked Guterres for his political commitment to the UN-led process and reiterated that a settlement should be based on United Nations Security Council resolutions and international law.
Guterres said the current regional instability made progress on the Cyprus issue even more important, noting that a settlement would benefit not only Cyprus but also contribute to stability across the Eastern Mediterranean.
The Cyprus talks continue under scrutiny from both communities, with expectations now focused on the UN Secretary-General’s announcement later today.
Also read: Guterres seeks solution or progress before leaving office
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