Nicosia, Cyprus – President Nikos Christodoulides forcefully rejected suggestions that upcoming parliamentary elections or Cyprus’s presidency of the Council of the European Union should impede the resumption of negotiations regarding the Cyprus problem. Speaking Sunday after attending celebrations for Saint Maron in Nicosia, Christodoulides stated his readiness for an expanded meeting with Turkish Cypriot leaders as early as next week, building on agreements reached with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in Modern York.
The President characterized arguments delaying talks as “ridiculous,” emphasizing the Greek Cypriot side’s commitment to restarting negotiations from the point they left off in Crans-Montana, fully respecting the established negotiating framework – known as the “negotiating acquis.” He urged a shift from rhetoric to concrete action, stating, “Let us prove in practice that we are ready. Let us move beyond mere statements.” The renewed push for talks comes amid reports that the United Nations itself is facing challenges in convening a conference under the current circumstances, as reported by the Cyprus Mail.
Ready to Return to New York
Christodoulides expressed his willingness to travel to New York next week to formally announce the resumption of negotiations. He underscored that neither the domestic political calendar nor Cyprus’s international obligations would affect the government’s dedication to finding a resolution to the decades-long conflict. “As regards the parliamentary elections, I am sorry, but it is an absurd argument. They do not in any way affect either the outcome or the process,” he said. He directly challenged those hesitant to engage in talks to publicly state their reasons, reiterating the Greek Cypriot side’s preparedness.
Progress on Crossing Points and Gaza Involvement
Addressing separate issues, Christodoulides commented on recent statements from Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman regarding crossing points, specifically Ayios Dhometios. He stated that the Republic of Cyprus has been consistently prepared to widen the road at the crossing, but delays have occurred within the buffer zone. He further noted that a negative response from the Turkish Cypriot side was received during the leadership of Ersin Tatar. This echoes earlier reports from April 2025, where Protothema detailed progress on four of six points raised by the UN Secretary-General, including discussions on technical committees related to youth, environmental issues, restoration of cemeteries, and de-mining.
Beyond the Cyprus problem, Christodoulides highlighted Cyprus’s participation as an observer in a Peace Council initiative focused on Gaza, following an invitation from the United States. He described the invitation as “significant,” emphasizing Cyprus’s unique position as the EU member state closest to Gaza and its vested interest in a peaceful resolution. He referenced the “Amalthea” humanitarian initiative launched by Cyprus after the October 2023 attacks, demonstrating the island’s commitment to regional stability. A final decision regarding attendance – either by himself or Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos – is expected soon.
Recent UN Engagement
Recent meetings between President Christodoulides and UN officials underscore the ongoing diplomatic efforts. According to the official government website, Christodoulides met with UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, on Monday, emphasizing that the current status quo is not a viable solution. Further meetings with the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General on Cyprus, María Angela Holguín Cuéllar, took place on January 26th, 27th, and 28th, indicating continued engagement with the UN to facilitate a renewed negotiation process.
The President’s firm stance and willingness to engage directly with the UN signal a proactive approach to resolving the Cyprus issue. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether these efforts translate into a tangible resumption of negotiations. Observers will be closely watching for a response from Turkish Cypriot leadership and the UN’s assessment of the feasibility of convening a broadened conference in the near future.
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