UN Reports Progress in Cyprus Talks, Urges Swift Action

UN chief Guterres hosts informal Cyprus talks with Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders and foreign ministers.

Reporting “constructive” discussions on Cyprus, UN Secretary-General António Guterres announced on Thursday that four previously agreed trust-building measures have been implemented, technical work continues on two others, and both sides have agreed to expand cooperation in areas including youth, environment, culture, and civil society.

Mr Guterres was speaking to reporters after hosting Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar at UN Headquarters in New York.

“Today’s discussions were constructive. Both leaders reviewed the progress on the six initiatives they agreed to in March to build trust,” he said.

Of these six initiatives, four have been completed: the creation of a technical committee on youth, initiatives on environment and climate change, restoration of cemeteries, and an agreement on demining, which will be finalised once the remaining technical details are resolved.

“Discussions will continue on the remaining two,” the UN chief added, referring to the opening of four crossing points on the divided island and the implementation of solar energy projects in the buffer zone.

Additionally, the leaders reached a common understanding on launching new initiatives, including establishing a consultative body for civil society engagement, exchanging cultural artefacts, improving air quality monitoring, and addressing microplastic pollution.

“It is critical to implement these initiatives – all of them – as soon as possible for the benefit of all Cypriots,” Mr Guterres emphasised.

The Secretary-General also confirmed he would meet both leaders again during the UN General Assembly’s high-level week in September, with another informal meeting planned later this year.

“There’s a long road ahead, and it is important to think about what the future can mean for all Cypriots,” he said.

“But these steps clearly demonstrate a commitment to continuing dialogue and working on initiatives that benefit all Cypriots,” he added.

The United Nations continues to play a central role in seeking a comprehensive and mutually acceptable solution to the Cyprus issue, facilitating dialogue between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders.

While sufficient common ground has not yet been found to resume formal negotiations, informal engagements led by the Secretary-General and other senior UN officials continue.

Meanwhile, the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), deployed since 1964, remains present on the island to help maintain stability.