Greek Cypriots are at the centre of diplomatic efforts as President Christodoulides addresses the issue of five individuals detained in the occupied north. Speaking at an event in Milikouri, the president confirmed that the government is actively reaching out to Turkey to secure the release of these Greek Cypriots, who are being held illegally.
Greek cypriots: Targeted Diplomatic Outreach
Christodoulides stated that messages have been dispatched to the White House and various US senators as part of a broader international campaign aimed at resolving the situation. He emphasised Turkey’s role in the detentions, asserting that the country bears responsibility for the actions taken against the Greek Cypriots, either through direct orders or tacit approval.
UN Engagement Ahead of General Assembly
Adding to the diplomatic landscape, the president welcomed the forthcoming visit of María Ángela Holguín, the UN Secretary-General’s personal envoy for Cyprus. Her arrival is anticipated next week, just ahead of the UN General Assembly.
“I consider it particularly important that Ms Holguín will visit Cyprus before the UN General Assembly, where there will be a meeting with the UN Secretary-General and the Turkish Cypriot leader on the sidelines,” Christodoulides remarked. He expressed optimism that the visit would showcase the UN Secretary-General’s political will to foster positive developments in the ongoing Cyprus issue.
Preparations for Meaningful Dialogue
Despite Holguín needing to postpone her visit for personal reasons, Christodoulides highlighted its significance, stating that it reflects the Secretary-General’s commitment to advancing discussions. He indicated that Cyprus is prepared with “specific ideas” aimed at implementing previously agreed measures and resuming negotiations.
Upcoming Visit from Council of Europe Secretary-General
The diplomatic efforts do not stop there, as the Council of Europe Secretary-General is set to arrive on Monday. Christodoulides pointed out the importance of this visit, especially in light of the ongoing illegal detention of the five Greek Cypriots.
“We are already in contact on this specific issue, but tomorrow is an opportunity to discuss even more specifically, following other actions we are taking in various directions, hoping that this illegal, piratical act will end as soon as possible,” he stated, conveying the urgency of addressing the situation.
Challenges and Commitment to Progress
When asked whether the provocations from the illegal regime could dampen optimism for the upcoming UN Secretary-General meeting, Christodoulides acknowledged the complexities of the current environment. However, he reaffirmed Cyprus’s commitment to moving forward despite these challenges.
“Certainly it does not create the necessary environment we would like to have, but at the same time we know very well that the data on the Cyprus issue was never easy,” he admitted. “We are here to do whatever is possible, precisely because for us the present state of affairs cannot constitute the future of the Cyprus issue.”
Broader Diplomatic Efforts
The president confirmed that the diplomatic outreach regarding the illegal detention extends beyond bilateral contacts with the US. He noted that messages have been sent “in various directions” in hopes of achieving a resolution to this pressing issue.
As these diplomatic initiatives unfold, the situation of the detained Greek Cypriots remains a focal point of international attention, with the government striving to secure their release and restore their rights.
