President Nikos Christodoulides is expected to meet on Tuesday morning with Jean‑Pierre Lacroix, the UN Under‑Secretary‑General for Peace Operations, at the Presidential Palace, according to CNA sources.
The meeting will focus on developments in the buffer zone as well as broader aspects of the Cyprus issue.
Following repeated incursions into the buffer zone in the Pyla area by Turkish Cypriot security forces in recent days, government sources told CNA that calm currently prevails and that developments are being closely monitored through continuous communication with the UN peacekeeping force.
Tensions flared earlier this week due to the repeated incursions into the buffer zone on the Pyla plateau, as well as a brief standoff in Pergamos, prompting the UN to increase its presence and patrols as a counterpoint.
According to CNA, the UN Department of Peace Operations expressed concern in a briefing to members of the UN Security Council over a gradual shift in conditions within the buffer zone in the Pyla area. The department noted that since early February 2026 a pattern of increasing restrictions has emerged on the Pyla plateau. From early April, the frequency of incursions by Turkish Cypriot ‘police’ also increased, with UNFICYP assessing that these measures aim to control the area, regulate access and ultimately entrench a presence there.
Lacroix’s visit to Cyprus on April 19 to 21 was planned before the Pyla flare up though it will clearly be high on the agenda. According to a UN statement, during his stay he will meet with authorities from both sides to discuss the current situation and the role of the UN Peacekeeping Mission in supporting stability on the island, including efforts to facilitate dialogue, prevent tensions and maintain calm in and around the buffer zone.
He will also meet with the UNFICYP leadership, the diplomatic community and mission personnel.
In addition, Lacroix will engage with youth representatives and take part in the launch of the global “Through Her Lens” photo exhibit, which highlights the role of women in advancing peace and security.
He leaves on April 21 for Switzerland for further meetings.
Erhürman-DiCarlo meeting
Meanwhile, Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman met in Turkey with UN Under‑Secretary‑General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo.
According to a statement from his office, Erhürman – who is in Turkey to attend the Antalya Diplomacy Forum – had a productive meeting with DiCarlo, discussing the Cyprus issue and confidence‑building measures.