President Nikos Christodoulides expressed strong disagreement with the UN Special Envoy for Cyprus on Saturday, over suggestions to postpone substantive talks until after June.
In an interview with the Greek newspaper TA NEA, Christodoulides emphasised that neither Cyprus’ EU Council presidency nor domestic elections should hinder the resumption of negotiations.
He outlined a five-point proposal presented during UN Special Envoy Maria Angela Holguin’s recent visit to Nicosia: reaffirming the agreed basis for a solution with explicit reference to political equality; documenting convergences up to Crans-Montana; convening an Expanded Conference based on that document; announcing the restart of substantive talks; and opening four checkpoints. Christodoulides declared readiness to participate even as early as next week.
His statements come after an opinion piece by Holguin last week ruffled a few feathers, when she suggested resuming talks before June would have little point, given Cyprus’ EU Presidency, parliamentary elections in May, and the new Turkish Cypriot leadership’s efforts to consolidate its position domestically and vis-à-vis Turkey.
Prospects for negotiations and regional cooperation
Christodoulides stressed that a change in the Turkish Cypriot leadership could help resume talks based on the Bizonal, Bicommunal Federation framework from where they stalled in 2017. He reiterated that the current unacceptable status quo cannot constitute a solution.
On Greek-Turkish relations, the President noted that improvements could facilitate negotiations, but stressed that full normalisation cannot occur without resolving the Cyprus issue. He added that Turkey’s obligations to the EU, including restarting talks, remain binding.
The President highlighted the continued strength of the Cyprus–Greece–Israel trilateral cooperation and strong US interest in its reinforcement.
Gaza crisis and domestic achievements
Regarding the crisis in Gaza, Christodoulides said Cyprus has been internationally recognised for its humanitarian efforts. He referred to the US President’s plan as the only comprehensive framework currently on the table and stressed the need for international action to prevent further escalation. Cyprus contributed proposals during the Gaza summit in Egypt and will participate in the Washington conference.
Reflecting on his three-year tenure, Christodoulides cited a reduction in migration flows by over 80% as a key achievement, alongside strong economic growth, multiple credit rating upgrades, investment grade status, and public debt close to 50%. These results allow investment in housing, health, education, welfare, defence, security, and digital transformation.
He concluded that key challenges remain, including lowering electricity costs and advancing reforms such as pensions, but expressed confidence that the government has the plan, will, and optimism to succeed.