Foreign Minister begins US diplomatic blitz

Cyprus Minister of Foreign Affairs, Constantinos Kombos, embarks on a significant working visit to the United States, starting with engagements in Washington, New York, and Chicago. Kombos begins his itinerary by participating in a closed round table discussion at the "Council on Foreign Relations" think tank, followed by a speech at the AJC Global Forum conference. His agenda also includes meetings with prominent figures such as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and UN Under-Secretary-General for peace operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix.

The focal point of Kombos' visit revolves around Cyprus-related issues, as he is set to attend the PSEKA Conference and inaugurate a photographic exhibition commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Turkish invasion and occupation. Additionally, he plans to engage in discussions with key members of the Senate and Congress, along with other governmental officials.

Transitioning to New York, Kombos will be a keynote speaker at an event commemorating the 60th anniversary of UNFICYP's presence in Cyprus, alongside presenting the "60 Years of UNFICYP" photographic exhibition. He is scheduled to meet with UN Under-Secretary-General Jean-Pierre Lacroix and participate in a working lunch with permanent members of the UN Security Council. Furthermore, Kombos will advocate for Cyprus' candidacy to the Human Rights Council for 2025-2027 at a dedicated event hosted at the UN headquarters.

In Chicago, Kombos will continue his engagements by delivering a keynote address at an event organized by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs think tank. The visit culminates with a meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the US State Department, where discussions will encompass bilateral relations, the Cyprus issue, and developments in the Middle East. Additionally, Kombos is slated to meet with US Deputy National Security Adviser Jon Finer.

The backdrop of Kombos' visit underscores the enduring division of Cyprus since 1974, following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite repeated UN-led peace talks, including the latest round in July 2017, held at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana, a conclusive resolution remains elusive. Recently, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appointed María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar of Colombia as his personal envoy for Cyprus, tasked with assuming a Good Offices role to explore pathways toward progress in resolving the Cyprus issue.