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There’s a renewed sense of optimism in Cyprus about the possibility of opening new roadblocks. President Nikos Christodoulides shared his hopes last night that Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar will agree to meet soon to discuss the issue, after a conversation between the two leaders at the annual United Nations reception at Ledra Palace.
Speaking to reporters, President Christodoulides revealed he had invited Tatar to meet, saying he’s ready to sit down as early as tomorrow. "I conveyed to Mr. Tatar my willingness to meet immediately to discuss the opening of new roadblocks," Christodoulides said. "There’s some preparatory work being done, and it’s important that we meet to review the situation and give the negotiators clear guidance on how to move forward."
The potential meeting could pave the way for progress on opening more crossing points, which would benefit both communities by easing movement across the island. Although Christodoulides made it clear that such a meeting may not lead to immediate announcements, he stressed the importance of continuing the dialogue, especially in line with commitments made to the UN Secretary-General. "I hope Mr. Tatar’s response will be positive," he added.
HAPPENING NOW: Top @UN official in #Cyprus, Colin Stewart, welcomes @Christodulides and @ErsinrTatar to Ledra Palace Hotel for the annual end of year reception. #UNCyprusTalks pic.twitter.com/TYb40st7R7
— UN Cyprus (@UN_CYPRUS) December 10, 2024
At the same reception, Colin Stewart, the UN Special Representative in Cyprus, weighed in on the talks, echoing the President’s optimism. Stewart emphasized that political will is key to reaching an agreement. "Opening new crossing points will create positive momentum for both sides and is an important step towards finding a solution," Stewart said. He noted that initial discussions have been filled with optimism, though he acknowledged that these talks take time. "We thought we might have an announcement tonight, but these things are never quick," Stewart added, with a hopeful outlook on the future.
Stewart also mentioned that talks are underway for a larger informal meeting, which would bring together the two leaders and the guarantor powers under the UN’s guidance. This meeting is seen as an opportunity for more critical discussions on the way forward.
As 2024 ends, there is a sense that momentum is building. Both leaders are taking cautious steps toward finding common ground, with the hope that soon, these discussions will turn into real action on the ground.
[With information from CNA]
