UN Envoy’s Diplomatic Endeavors to Rekindle Cyprus Negotiation Talks
In a recent update from the government’s spokesperson, Konstantinos Letymbiots, it has been announced that President Nikos Christodoulides is set to engage in a pivotal meeting with Maria Angela Holguin, the personal envoy of the UN Secretary-General. The meeting, scheduled for Wednesday morning, is expected to revolve around Holguin’s recent discussions with European Union officials and her encounter with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Ankara.
The agenda is clear: to explore the possibilities of reigniting the long-stalled negotiation talks concerning the Cyprus problem. Holguin’s arrival on Tuesday evening marks the beginning of a series of critical dialogues, as she is also slated to meet with Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar later on Wednesday.
Letymbiots emphasized the strategic importance of connecting Turkey’s path towards EU integration with the advancement of the Cyprus issue. He highlighted the constructive signals from both Nicosia and the European Union, suggesting a unified stance on progressing towards a resolution.
In response to Tatar’s recent dismissal of a bizonal, bicommunal federation as a viable solution, Letymbiots reaffirmed the Republic’s dedication to the consensus-based solution framework. He further mentioned that the National Council would convene only upon a significant development, maintaining established protocols.
Amidst these diplomatic efforts, preparations are also in progress for Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ anticipated visit to Turkey. This visit is part of a concerted effort by Athens and Nicosia to foster a conducive environment for the resumption of negotiation talks. With multiple high-level meetings on the horizon, there is a cautious optimism that new pathways for dialogue and resolution may soon emerge.