Nicosia – Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman held a meeting Tuesday in an effort to revive stalled negotiations aimed at reunifying the divided island of Cyprus. The talks, which lasted approximately 90 minutes, took place at the residence of the United Nations Special Representative and Head of UNFICYP, Khassim Diagne, within the UN buffer zone in Nicosia.
The meeting represents a renewed diplomatic push to address the decades-long dispute that has divided Cyprus since 1974. Both leaders described the discussions as constructive, focusing on confidence-building measures and establishing guiding principles for future negotiations. The core issue remains finding a comprehensive settlement that addresses the political, economic, and security concerns of both communities.
Speaking to reporters following the meeting, President Christodoulides characterized the atmosphere as “open and honest,” stating that substantive issues were also discussed alongside the review of existing confidence-building measures. He indicated that the two sides agreed to reconvene in the near future to assess progress and determine the feasibility of resuming formal negotiations.
According to Christodoulides, the discussions included a detailed examination of confidence-building measures, identifying areas of progress as well as those experiencing delays. Specifically, issues related to crossing points between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot sides were on the agenda. The aim, he explained, is to build momentum toward comprehensive negotiations even as upholding the framework established in previous United Nations-led efforts.
Confidence-Building Measures and Future Talks
The leaders agreed to provide their negotiators with guiding principles to facilitate further progress on confidence-building measures. These measures are seen as crucial steps toward rebuilding trust and creating a more conducive environment for substantive negotiations. Christodoulides also announced plans to request a meeting with U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in March to discuss the situation and seek his support. He also intends to convene the Greek Cypriot National Council to brief political leaders and gather their perspectives.
A key point of discussion was the reaffirmation of the principle of political equality between the two communities, a principle that has been central to recent United Nations discussions. Both sides are exploring ways to address this principle as they work to move the peace process forward.
Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman also described the meeting positively, calling it “one of the most open and sincere” talks held to date, according to Hürriyet Daily News. He echoed Christodoulides’ commitment to advancing confidence-building measures.
Decades of Division
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey intervened following a coup d’état aimed at union with Greece. The island is currently split between the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus, predominantly Greek Cypriot, and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), recognized only by Turkey. Daily Sabah reports that the Greek Cypriot side is recognized internationally, while the TRNC seeks broader recognition with Turkish support.
Numerous attempts to broker a comprehensive settlement have failed over the years, with disagreements over power-sharing, territorial adjustments, and security arrangements remaining major obstacles. The United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) has been stationed on the island since 1964, tasked with maintaining peace, and security.
The meeting between Christodoulides and Erhürman, as reported by Politis, marks a significant step in renewed efforts to address the long-standing Cyprus issue. The outcome of future discussions and the level of commitment from both sides will be critical in determining whether a lasting solution can be found.
What comes next will depend on the ability of both leaders to translate the positive atmosphere of this initial meeting into concrete progress on key issues. Further meetings are planned, and the involvement of the U.N. Secretary-General will be crucial in maintaining momentum. The international community will be closely watching developments as Cyprus seeks a path toward a peaceful and unified future.
Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below.