President Christodoulides Forms Advisory Group for Cyprus Problem
In a significant development aimed at addressing the longstanding Cyprus problem, President Nikos Christodoulides has established a new “political group.” The announcement came from government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis following the latest National Council meeting. This advisory body comprises 12 members, including both current and former Members of Parliament from a broad political spectrum, as well as legal experts.
The group’s mandate is to provide counsel and will operate alongside a forthcoming “legal group,” which is set to be announced soon. These initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to a multifaceted approach in resolving the complex issues surrounding Cyprus.
During the National Council session, President Christodoulides briefed party leaders on his recent discussions with United Nations envoy Maria Angela Holguin and Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. This dialogue comes in anticipation of Holguin’s visit to Cyprus in early May, marking her third trip to the island since her appointment as UN envoy.
Christodoulides also addressed the outcomes of the latest European Council meeting concerning EU-Turkey relations. His proactive stance in convening the National Council was clarified as a response to the European Council’s conclusions, rather than as a reaction to criticism over a dispute between auditor-general Odysseas Michaelides and the legal service.
Opposition parties, including Disy and Akel, have been vocal in their demands for more frequent National Council meetings, especially in light of Christodoulides’ acceptance of UN proposals related to the Cyprus issue. Their calls were amplified after Disy MP Onoufrios Koullas expressed surprise over the president’s acceptance of proposals from Guterres without prior consultation with political parties.
Akel echoed this sentiment, urging Christodoulides to disclose details of the accepted proposals. Despite initial resistance to convening the National Council, the government’s stance shifted, with Letymbiotis indicating that future meetings would be contingent on new developments since the last session.
The formation of this political group represents a strategic move by President Christodoulides to foster a collaborative environment for tackling the Cyprus problem. It is a step that signifies the administration’s dedication to involving a wide array of political voices and legal expertise in the pursuit of a lasting resolution.
