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Tag: Peace Talks

  • France Positioned to Lead in Resolving Cyprus Problem, Says President Christodoulides

    France Positioned to Lead in Resolving Cyprus Problem, Says President Christodoulides

    France could and should play a leading role in efforts to solve the Cyprus problem, according to President Nikos Christodoulides. In a recent interview with Le Figaro, he expressed his hopes for increased French involvement, emphasising the unique position France holds within the European Union and the United Nations.

    Christodoulides noted that France is not only an EU member but also a permanent member of the UN Security Council, making it a key player in international discussions on the matter. “Any progress must be based on UN Security Council resolutions to allow us to move forward,” he stated.

    He stressed the importance of creating conditions conducive to resuming discussions centred around a bizonal and bicommunal federation, as outlined in various UN resolutions. “I am very pleased that this point was mentioned in a joint statement last week,” he added, referring to a tripartite meeting with UN envoy Maria Angela Holguin and Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman.

    During the conversation, Christodoulides articulated a vision for a reunified Cyprus, where both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots would enjoy the same rights as citizens of EU member states. He asserted, “After the Cyprus issue is resolved, the Republic of Cyprus should be a fully functioning state.” This perspective aligns with broader goals for Cyprus to strengthen its role in the region post-resolution.

    The discussion surrounding France’s potential role in resolving the Cyprus problem comes on the heels of supportive remarks from French President Emmanuel Macron. Following the signing of a strategic partnership between France and Cyprus, Macron expressed his hopes for a solution that would allow all Cypriots to live together harmoniously on a reunified island. “France strongly supports the United Nations’ mediation efforts for a just, comprehensive, and lasting settlement of the Cyprus issue,” he stated.

    Macron’s commitment underscores the shared interest between Cyprus and France in fostering stability in the region. As diplomatic discussions continue, the call for deeper French involvement from President Christodoulides could pave the way for renewed efforts towards a long-awaited resolution.

  • Erhurman negotiation: Christodoulides Prepared to Address Erhurman’s Negotiation Points on Cyprus Issue

    Erhurman negotiation: Christodoulides Prepared to Address Erhurman’s Negotiation Points on Cyprus Issue

    erhurman negotiation — erhurman negotiation — President Nikos Christodoulides has answers for all issues surrounding the Cyprus problem, including the four points proposed by Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman to resume negotiations. This statement was made by government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis on Saturday following a meeting between Christodoulides and United Nations envoy Maria Angela Holguin.

    Erhurman negotiation: Upcoming Meeting to Discuss Negotiation Points

    Letymbiotis remarked that discussions regarding Erhurman’s four points and other related matters will take place during a tripartite meeting scheduled for Thursday. This meeting will involve Christodoulides, Holguin, and Erhurman. Letymbiotis emphasised the importance of resuming negotiations from the point where they were interrupted in Crans-Montana, referring to the last significant talks that collapsed in 2017.

    Erhurman’s Four Points and Their Implications

    Erhurman’s four points, often labelled as ‘preconditions’—a term he finds unappealing—include demands for the Greek Cypriot side to acknowledge political equality, impose time limits on negotiations, maintain all previous agreements, and ensure that the UN guarantees the lifting of embargoes on Turkish Cypriots should the Greek Cypriots withdraw from the talks again.

    Constructive Discussions and Future Meetings

    When asked about specific suggestions raised during their discussions, Letymbiotis described the dialogue as “very specific” and focused both on the goal of restarting negotiations and the preparation for a larger meeting. This upcoming enlarged gathering, the third of its kind this year, will bring together the two sides of Cyprus, their three guarantor powers—Greece, Turkey, and the United Kingdom—and the UN to address the Cyprus problem. It is likely to take place next month.

    Holguin’s Optimism and Upcoming Visits

    Letymbiotis highlighted the positive atmosphere of Saturday’s meeting, labelling it as “very good and constructive.” Following her visit to Cyprus, Holguin is set to travel to Athens and Ankara, where she will also confer with the European Union’s envoy for the Cyprus problem, Johannes Hahn. These discussions aim to organise and establish a date for the next enlarged meeting, which Letymbiotis insists should be convened as soon as possible due to its composition facilitating in-depth discussions.

    National Council Meeting to Inform Political Leaders

    In light of the upcoming tripartite meeting, Christodoulides will convene a National Council meeting on Friday to brief the leaders of Greek Cypriot political parties on the progress made regarding the Cyprus problem. Earlier in the day, Holguin expressed optimism about the next steps towards resolving the Cyprus issue. She noted that preparatory work is underway for the Thursday meeting, which she described as the first of its kind in many years.

    A Productive Engagement and Hope for Progress

    Holguin conveyed her satisfaction with the productive nature of Saturday’s meeting, expressing her happiness to have returned to the island. She also mentioned the inspiration drawn from a retreat with the bicommunal technical committee on youth held in Jordan last November.

    Erhurman’s Concerns on Crossing Points

    During discussions, Erhurman expressed frustration regarding the lack of progress on issues such as long tailbacks at the Ayios Dhometios crossing point in western Nicosia. Following a meeting with Christodoulides last month, he indicated that addressing operational inefficiencies at the crossing could alleviate congestion significantly. Despite this, he noted that the police cabins on the southern side of the crossing remain underutilised.

    Exploration of New Crossing Points

    In addition to the ongoing issues at Ayios Dhometios, Erhurman and Holguin discussed potential new crossing points in various areas, including the eastern Nicosia suburb of Mia Milia, the village of Louroujina, and the town of Athienou. These discussions reflect an ongoing effort to enhance movement and relations between the two communities on the island.

  • Cyprus Draws Parallels Between Its Occupation and Ukraine’s Territorial Integrity

    Cyprus Draws Parallels Between Its Occupation and Ukraine’s Territorial Integrity

    Cyprus has drawn a poignant connection between its own experience of territorial occupation and the ongoing situation in Ukraine. During three consecutive European Union videoconferences focused on establishing a peaceful resolution in Ukraine, President Christodoulides underscored the importance of sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. His remarks were informed by Cyprus’s 51-year experience under Turkish occupation, which has seen 37% of its territory remain under illegal control.

    • The discussions reflect a broader acknowledgment of the interconnectedness of territorial integrity across Europe and the shared commitment to oppose any form of occupation or aggression.

    Territorial integrity: Emphasising Sovereignty and Independence

    In his interventions, President Christodoulides highlighted the urgent need for any resolution to the Ukraine crisis to uphold these fundamental principles. The government spokesman, Konstantinos Letymbiotis, reported that the president expressed significant concerns regarding potential ramifications for Cyprus stemming from developments in Ukraine and any agreements reached with Russia.

    “Any solution must be based on full respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity,” Christodoulides stated. He reiterated that Cyprus’s historical experience, which includes enduring 51 years of illegal Turkish occupation, reinforces the necessity of defending these principles without concessions or exceptions.

    Regional and International Support for Ukraine

    Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis also weighed in on the discussion, reiterating the importance of border inviolability. He voiced satisfaction with the United States’ intentions to provide security guarantees while reaffirming Greece’s commitment to border integrity. This united front among leaders reflects a broader consensus within the EU regarding the need for a stable and secure Europe.

    Key Meetings and Strategic Discussions

    The videoconferences included critical meetings involving the European People’s Party and the Coalition of the Willing, following up on previous discussions held the prior Sunday. European Council President Antonio Costa convened EU member state leaders to provide detailed briefings on the recent meetings between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Joe Biden.

    During these discussions, leaders engaged in substantive exchanges of views on the ongoing crisis, underscoring the pivotal role of international cooperation in addressing the situation. Cyprus affirmed its unwavering support for Ukraine’s quest for freedom and the restoration of its territorial integrity, drawing parallels to its own struggles as an EU member state under occupation.

    The EU’s Commitment to Peace and Security

    European Council President Costa stated that the EU remains committed to supporting efforts aimed at achieving a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine. He remarked, “Russia must immediately end the violence,” framing this as an essential first step towards resolving the conflict.

    “Ukraine was – and will remain – at the top of leaders’ agendas in coming weeks and months as we continue supporting efforts for just and sustainable peace,” Costa affirmed, highlighting the EU’s proactive stance in addressing the crisis.

    Progress in Peace Efforts

    European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen referenced the ongoing discussions about the progress made in peace efforts concerning Ukraine. She noted that talks in Washington had advanced regarding “strong security guarantees for Ukraine,” aiming to end the bloodshed, impose sanctions on aggressors, and facilitate the return of abducted children.

    The solidarity displayed by EU leaders during these videoconferences emphasises a collective determination to uphold international law and protect the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.

    Unity Among EU Leaders

    Annita Demetriou, president of the ruling Democratic Rally party in Cyprus (DISY), participated in the EPP leaders’ summit via videoconference. She, alongside other leaders, stressed the importance of unity and steadfastness regarding the principles surrounding developments in Ukraine, particularly in light of recent diplomatic engagements in Alaska and Washington.

    The discussions reflect a broader acknowledgment of the interconnectedness of territorial integrity across Europe and the shared commitment to oppose any form of occupation or aggression.

    Looking Ahead

    The situation in Ukraine continues to be a pressing issue for European leaders, with ongoing discussions aimed at securing a peaceful resolution. Cyprus’s experience serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of safeguarding territorial integrity and the implications that unresolved conflicts can have on regional stability.

    As the EU leaders prepare for future meetings and negotiations, the commitment to uphold these values remains at the forefront of their agendas. Cyprus’s perspective reinforces the necessity of learning from history while advocating for a future where sovereignty and independence are respected and protected.