United Nations Envoy’s Diplomatic Endeavor in Cyprus
The island of Cyprus is set to welcome United Nations Envoy Maria Angela Holguin this Tuesday, as she embarks on her latest diplomatic mission. Holguin’s agenda is packed with high-profile meetings, including discussions with President Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar. The latter meeting is scheduled to take place at Tatar’s official residence in northern Nicosia, marking a significant step in ongoing negotiations.
Prior to her arrival in Cyprus, Holguin has been actively engaging with European leaders in Brussels. Her consultations included talks with European Council President Charles Michel, Commissioner Elisa Ferreira, and the EU’s High Representative for foreign affairs, Josep Borrell. Borrell has previously voiced the EU’s unwavering support for Holguin’s efforts to resolve the longstanding Cyprus issue.
President Christodoulides has reiterated Cyprus’s dedication to resuming negotiations, aiming to pick up from where they stalled in Crans Montana in 2017. This sentiment underscores the island’s commitment to finding a peaceful solution to its division.
Meanwhile, Tatar has been vocal at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation’s summit in the Gambia, advocating for the end of isolation against the Turkish Cypriot community and proposing a roadmap for enhanced cooperation with OIC member states. His bold statement on the Cyprus problem emphasizes the existence of two separate states and peoples on the island, challenging the traditional federal compromise approach.
Holguin’s visit, which is part of her six-month tenure as UN Envoy—a term that Tatar insists should not be extended—will not only focus on political figures but also include interactions with local business leaders and civil society members. Her presence in Cyprus until May 14th signifies a crucial period for diplomatic efforts and potential advancements towards resolving the decades-long division of the island.
