Government Resists Pressure for National Council on UNSG Proposals

Government Maintains Stance on UNSG Proposals Amid Calls for Transparency

In a recent press briefing, the government‘s spokesman, Konstantinos Letymbiotis, addressed the media with a composed demeanor, despite the increasing pressure to shed light on the secrecy of the United Nations Secretary-General (UNSG) proposals. The calls for transparency have been met with a steadfast refusal to convene a National Council meeting, a demand that has been echoed by major political entities within the country.

Letymbiotis, while responding to questions regarding the Cyprus problem (Cyprob), maintained a deliberate ambiguity, particularly when probed about Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar’s stance on the UNSG’s ideas. “What I will repeat to you once again is that we are positive to the Secretary-General’s proposals,” he stated, emphasizing the government’s commitment to working closely with the United Nations.

The spokesman artfully navigated inquiries about the specifics of the UNSG’s proposal, likening the relationship between process and substance to a riddle. His cryptic response highlighted a preference for discretion: “At this point we believe that it is not beneficial to continue this public debate.”

Despite repeated requests from political parties such as Disy and Akel for President Nikos Christodoulides to call a National Council meeting, Letymbiotis pointed out that such meetings have already taken place five times. He suggested that a new meeting would only be called if there were significant changes since the last gathering.

Letymbiotis confirmed that President Christodoulides was briefed on Tatar’s recent meeting with the UN Secretary-General but insisted that these discussions should remain confidential. “We continue to remain committed to the substance,” he affirmed.

Regarding the tenure of Maria Angela Holguin as the UNSG’s personal envoy to Cyprus, Letymbiotis clarified that her appointment does not have a fixed term. He expressed hope that her services would lead to conditions conducive to resuming negotiations well before a six-month period elapsed.

The government’s approach to handling sensitive diplomatic negotiations continues to prioritize discretion over public discourse, a strategy that remains contentious among various stakeholders seeking greater openness in the handling of Cyprob-related matters.