Christodoulides ready for talks with Tatar

Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides has expressed his willingness to meet with Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar, under the observation of UN Secretary General's personal envoy Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar.

Christodoulides made the statement while speaking to journalists at an event in Nicosia on Tuesday evening.

He confirmed that a meeting with Holguin is scheduled for Saturday and mentioned having a phone conversation with her earlier in the day.

"I am ready to meet with Tatar in the presence of Holguin if his response is also positive," Christodoulides added.

Regarding his upcoming visit to Mount Athos, Christodoulides mentioned plans to visit Salonica on Wednesday for meetings. He will then officially visit Mount Athos on Thursday, marking a significant event as it is believed to be the first visit of its kind since the presidency of Glafcos Clerides.

Cyprus has remained divided since 1974, following a Turkish invasion and occupation of its northern territory. Despite numerous UN-led peace talks, a resolution to the division has yet to be achieved.

The appointment of Holguin as the UN Secretary General's personal envoy for Cyprus in January underscores ongoing efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the Cyprus issue.