The current moment for the Cyprus issue is described as critical but controlled, with no imminent breakthrough yet visible, according to a senior Greek diplomatic source following high-level contacts at the United Nations. While expectations of a major development remain limited, diplomatic efforts are ongoing and confidence-building measures continue to move forward, keeping the process alive ahead of a potentially broader discussion later this year.
Cyprus Talks: Momentum Without a Breakthrough
According to the source, the primary objective of the recent visit to the United Nations was engagement with the United Nations Security Council and a meeting with the António Guterres. Although recent political developments have altered the broader environment, the source stressed that conditions are not yet mature for convening a new expanded-format meeting.
“There is no major development that would generate strong momentum at this stage,” the source noted, adding that confidence-building measures, as outlined during the most recent expanded meeting in New York, are nevertheless progressing. At the same time, there is no clear timetable for the next steps.
An expanded-format meeting could potentially take place in the spring, the source said, highlighting the “significant effort” being undertaken by the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, María Ángela Holguín.
Crucially, Cyprus remains a high priority for the UN Secretary-General, a development that was described as encouraging. However, the source underlined that any discussion must take place strictly within the framework of UN resolutions, which remains a non-negotiable condition.
Greek-Turkish Relations: Dialogue Without Convergence
Turning to Greek-Turkish relations, the same source said that the High-Level Cooperation Council is expected to convene in Ankara by mid-February. Maintaining open channels of communication was described as essential, particularly amid ongoing global geopolitical volatility.
“We do not have crises, we have tensions,” the source said, clarifying that there is currently no basis for substantive discussions on the continental shelf or Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ). Nonetheless, Greece is seeking a constructive dialogue aimed at preserving calm during a particularly sensitive period.
Turkish NAVTEX: ‘Entirely Groundless’
Commenting on a recent Turkish NAVTEX, the senior diplomatic source described it as part of Ankara’s established practices, characterising it as entirely unfounded. According to the assessment, a mechanism intended under international law solely for safeguarding navigation is being instrumentalised for political purposes.
Gaza Peace Council: No Compromise on Principles
Regarding the Peace Council discussions on Gaza, the source stressed that Greece aligned itself firmly with the European position and, as a member of the UN Security Council, remains bound by international law as produced within the UN system.
“There will be no compromise on values,” the source said, emphasising the need for full compliance with the relevant UN resolution.
Libya: Elections, Resources, and a Political Solution
On Libya, the source noted ongoing contacts involving the UN Special Envoy Hanna Tetteh, alongside Michael Boulos, with the ultimate goal of holding elections.
Greece, the source said, maintains continuous communication with both sides in Libya and has pursued active diplomacy over the past seven months. Libya, it was stressed, must remain at the centre of UN efforts, as external influences are seen as harmful. Greece supports a clear political solution and has conveyed to the UN Secretary-General Libya’s request for renewed efforts concerning the management of the country’s resources, described as a legitimate demand given that they belong to the Libyan people.
Syria: Concerns Over Ceasefire and Accountability
Finally, addressing Syria, the senior diplomatic source expressed concern over current developments, underlining the absolute necessity of respecting the ceasefire agreement and ensuring accountability.
The United Nations, the source said, must closely monitor the interim government’s commitment to tolerance and inclusivity, particularly toward religious and ethnic minorities. Greece is following these issues closely, including in relation to the role of the Patriarchate.
Source: CNA