President Nikos Christodoulides said on Wednesday that further developments on the Cyprus issue are expected in the coming days, pointing to growing diplomatic momentum surrounding efforts to restart negotiations.
Speaking on the sidelines of a memorial service for those killed during the 1974 coup, Christodoulides said recent initiatives involving the European Union and the United Nations reflect the intense efforts made by the government to advance the Cyprus issue. "In the coming days, you will hear more news that will demonstrate this momentum," he said.
The president noted that he had just returned from Paris, where he met European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, following her announcement of Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto as the Commission's special envoy for Cyprus.
Christodoulides said the ultimate objective remains the resumption of talks from the point at which they were suspended, leading to a solution fully aligned with EU principles, values and law.
More announcements expected
Asked whether a date had been agreed for an expanded Cyprus meeting, Christodoulides declined to provide details. "The announcements will be made by those who are the protagonists. Allow them to make the announcements."
He nevertheless described the expected announcements as further evidence of the diplomatic activity under way.
The president also suggested that the timing of Fitto's appointment was no coincidence. "I said some time ago that we would have a summer during which we would all need to remain alert."
Brief exchange with Fidan
Commenting on photographs from Paris showing him speaking with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Christodoulides confirmed that the two had briefly exchanged views.
He said the discussion centred on initiatives led by UN Secretary-General António Guterres and developments involving the European Union.
When informed that some Turkish media outlets had denied any conversation had taken place, Christodoulides responded with a touch of humour. "I said there were no talks, there was a discussion. You can see it in the video. I didn't imagine the discussion, nor the photograph. It's not a product of AI."
EU role increasingly important
Asked whether he was more optimistic about Turkey's stance following von der Leyen's contacts with Turkish leaders, Christodoulides said Ankara's position would ultimately be judged at the negotiating table.
He highlighted two key takeaways from his meeting with the Commission president.
First, he said, von der Leyen had reiterated that any Cyprus settlement must be fully compatible with the principles, values and legal framework of the European Union.
Second, he stressed that any positive developments in EU-Turkey relations depend on corresponding progress on the Cyprus issue. "Any positive developments concerning Euro-Turkish relations presuppose substantial and specific positive developments on the Cyprus issue."
Dismisses Independent report
Asked about a report published by The Independent concerning the Cyprus issue, Christodoulides dismissed its claims. "Everything it mentions is not true," he said.
