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UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative, Colin Stewart, is set for crucial talks on Friday with the leaders of both Cyprus’ Greek and Turkish communities, as efforts continue to re-energize peace talks and open more crossing points across the divided island.
According to a statement from the Presidency of the Republic, Stewart will first meet with Greek Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides at 3:00 PM local time, before heading to the Turkish-occupied north for his meeting with Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar.
Earlier on Thursday, Stewart met with the negotiators of both sides—Menelaos Menelaou from the Greek Cypriot side and Gunes Onar representing the Turkish Cypriots. These discussions are part of broader efforts to break the deadlock in the Cyprus peace process, which has been stalled since the last round of talks in 2017.
In parallel with these diplomatic talks, the UN Security Council will convene on Friday to review and renew the mandate for the United Nations Peacekeeping Forces in Cyprus for another year. This peacekeeping force has been stationed on the island since 1964, playing a key role in maintaining stability during the ongoing division.
The meetings with both Christodoulides and Tatar are expected to focus on efforts to open more crossing points between the two communities, which could foster greater interaction and build confidence in the peace process. Despite the ongoing challenges, these discussions signal renewed international attention and pressure to make progress on a solution for the long-standing Cyprus issue.
*With information from CNA
