Nicosia's bid for EU involvement in the Cyprus issue met with restraint

A confidential source within the EU headquarters has disclosed to K that Nicosia had made appeals to both Brussels and Berlin for the appointment of an EU representative since last June. This effort predated the UN Secretary-General's decision to appoint his own envoy, as part of a strategy to set the stage for the resumption of the negotiation process.

Journalist Pavlos Xanthoulis' report delves into the matter, revealing that the Cypriot government had crafted a pertinent paragraph. This paragraph had been communicated to select member states with the request that it be incorporated into the Conclusions of last June's Summit. "K" has obtained this paragraph from the Cypriot government, which reads:

"Recalling its previous conclusions, the EU Council underlines that it is fully committed to playing an active role in supporting efforts for a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem under the auspices of the UN, in full respect of the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, as well as EU law, values and principles, including the appointment, as a first step, of a representative to facilitate the resumption of negotiations."

This paragraph, strategically developed and presented by Nicosia to its European counterparts, articulated the government's objective for the EU to make a decision and announce, starting from last June, the "appointment, as a first step, of a representative to facilitate the resumption of negotiations." However, the EU perceived this step as problematic on two fronts: firstly, it appeared to prejudge the UN Secretary-General's forthcoming appointment of his own envoy for the Cyprus issue, and secondly, it could imply an autonomous EU stance in addressing the Cyprus problem – a perspective Brussels and Berlin vehemently rejected.

Consequently, Nicosia's endeavors did not yield the intended outcome, aligning with previously reported trends. It became evident that the EU was disinclined to initiate an independent move in the Cyprus problem and sought a restrained role, consistent with its past involvement. This shift impacts the narrative put forth by Nicosia and President Christodoulides. The President has seemingly adjusted his aspirations to be in line with the level of EU engagement accepted in the context of the Cyprus issue.

Although the discussion centers around the degree of EU involvement and its role, it's important to note that Ankara also holds a significant influence in the matter.