The British government has welcomed UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ intention to convene another expanded meeting on the Cyprus issue once the necessary conditions are in place.
In a statement to the Cyprus News Agency, London also reaffirmed its commitment to the UN-led process and to achieving a comprehensive settlement benefiting all Cypriots.
Support for UN initiative
Responding to a CNA question following the conclusion of Guterres’ visit to Cyprus, a UK Foreign Office spokesperson said London “welcomes his intention to convene a new round of expanded meetings on Cyprus once the necessary conditions have been established”.
The statement follows the UN Secretary-General’s announcement that he intends to convene another 5+1 meeting when conditions allow the process to resume.
UK role as guarantor power
The British government also reiterated its longstanding support for a settlement under UN auspices.
“As a guarantor power, we continue to fully support the UN-led process, as well as the work of the Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy,” the spokesperson said.
The United Kingdom remains committed to achieving “a comprehensive and lasting settlement for the benefit of all Cypriots”, the spokesperson added.
Conditions for a new meeting
A British diplomat told CNA that London’s reference to the creation of the “necessary conditions” was consistent with the UN position.
According to the diplomat, any new informal multilateral meeting should be based on sufficient preparation and take place under circumstances that would allow meaningful progress in the negotiations.
Source: CNA.
