UNSG’s Personal Envoy and the Cyprus Problem: A Complex Puzzle of Diplomacy and Inaction
The recent visit by the UNSG’s personal envoy, Maria Angela Holguin, to Cyprus has stirred a mix of skepticism and urgency among local politicians regarding the longstanding Cyprus problem. Disy MP Averof Neophytou voiced concerns over the government’s passive stance, suggesting that the envoy’s efforts could either herald a new beginning or mark the start of an end to the issue.
Neophytou criticized the Christodoulides administration for its
On the international front, Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis, after meeting with Holguin in Athens, expressed Greece’s commitment to reigniting discussions and leveraging its influence to facilitate dialogue. He also emphasized the potential positive impact of improved Greek-Turkish relations on the Cyprus negotiations.
Meanwhile, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis briefed President Christodoulides on his recent talks with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, stressing the need for a tripartite meeting between Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders. However, Neophytou remains unconvinced by the UN envoy‘s statements, doubting any assurance for recommencing talks.
With a six-month deadline looming in July, Neophytou warned that time is running out, and Holguin’s next visit might be her last. He cautioned that without tangible progress, public relations efforts would be insufficient to navigate through the impending deadlock. He also highlighted the Turkish side’s potential preference for a stalemate, which could lead to increased risks and efforts to end the ‘TRNC’s international isolation.
In contrast, government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis confirmed Holguin’s return for another meeting and assured that the government remains undeterred in its pursuit to resume dialogue. The situation remains delicate, with each party holding its cards close while the clock ticks towards a critical juncture for the future of Cyprus.
