New York meeting hints at progress amid stiff resistance

According to a report by Kathimerini's George Kakouris, an informal dinner in New York among key players in the Cyprus issue wrapped up with participants offering different takes on the outcome. Turkish Cypriot (T/C) leader Ersin Tatar was the first to speak, making vague comments about expanding informal discussions and the potential for new roadblocks. He avoided specifics but later clarified that Greece and Turkey would join these talks, with the UN Secretary-General handling related contacts.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres left in a positive mood, telling reporters it had been a "good meeting." Meanwhile, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides appeared relaxed, emphasizing a small but positive step forward, noting that the Greek side’s approach remains flexible for now. However, he hinted that no concrete steps would be taken yet due to Tatar’s position.

The next phase of discussions may depend on how Turkey and Greece handle key issues, particularly whether Turkey will engage on the sensitive matter of security guarantees. The Greek Cypriot (G/C) side, for its part, will likely be expected to address governance matters, which could influence whether the T/C side softens its stance on sovereign equality.

Tatar, leaving the meeting in a seemingly defensive posture, reiterated his established positions but downplayed key points of the meeting until the end of his remarks. He also indicated minimal concern about criticism from within the T/C community, except possibly from the opposition.

For Guterres, the meeting was seen as a small but meaningful step toward resuming negotiations, especially in the context of broader regional tensions. Although progress may be slow, a potential discussion on governance, military presence, and security guarantees appears to be emerging as a priority for future talks.