The Cyprus problem remains unresolved as UN envoy Holguin emphasises the lack of progress during her meeting with President Christodoulides.
- The Cyprus problem remains unresolved as UN envoy Holguin emphasises the lack of progress during her meeting with President Christodoulides.
Cyprus problem: Warning Over Stalled Confidence-Building Measures
During a meeting at the Presidential Palace on Tuesday, Maria Angela Holguin, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, expressed concern about the stalled confidence-building measures (CBMs) that are crucial for advancing discussions on the Cyprus problem. Holguin stated that without tangible progress, convening an expanded 5+1 conference would be “very difficult.”
Context of the Meeting
Holguin’s visit to Cyprus comes at a critical juncture, as the UN aims to facilitate dialogue between the Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders. Following her discussions with President Nikos Christodoulides, Holguin noted that efforts to promote movement on CBMs have not yielded significant results. “So far there is not much progress,” she remarked, indicating that the success of a potential meeting next month hinges on the two leaders’ willingness to advance these measures.
Upcoming Meetings and Proposals
The envoy is scheduled to meet with Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman later on the same day, followed by a joint meeting with both leaders on Wednesday. This session will focus on methodology and a four-point proposal previously tabled by Erhürman. The importance of these discussions underscores the urgency of resuming negotiations that had previously been set aside.
Christodoulides’ Commitment to Negotiations
Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis spoke after the meeting, reinforcing President Christodoulides’ commitment to resume negotiations from where they left off at the Crans-Montana conference. Letymbiotis stated that the president plans to present a “very specific” proposal during Wednesday’s joint session. “If there is genuine political will, this will be revealed at the negotiating table,” he asserted, highlighting the necessity for a prompt restart of negotiations in line with UN Security Council resolutions.
Focus on Constructive Dialogue
The spokesman dismissed claims that the UN was straying from the agreed framework of a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality. He clarified that Holguin’s mandate is strictly guided by Security Council resolutions. Letymbiotis also pointed out that the Greek Cypriot side has put forth several proposals, including one for a new pedestrian crossing point, which are still pending acceptance. He rejected the notion of assigning blame for the current stalemate and instead emphasised the need for a constructive atmosphere.
Readiness for Expanded Meetings
Letymbiotis expressed the Greek Cypriot side’s readiness to participate in an expanded meeting at any time, stating, “We are ready, even tomorrow, to attend an expanded meeting.” He referenced the UN Secretary-General’s previous aim for such a conference to take place before the end of 2025, highlighting a timeline that underscores the urgency of resolving outstanding issues.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing dialogue and meetings between the leaders and the UN envoy are crucial for the future of Cyprus. Holguin’s emphasis on the need for progress on CBMs reflects the challenges that lie ahead in achieving a lasting resolution. As the discussions unfold, the international community watches closely, hoping for a breakthrough that will pave the way for a peaceful settlement to the Cyprus problem.
