The leaders must demonstrate “political will” to maintain momentum, build trust and move forward towards a possible resumption of talks, said the UN Secretary-General’s spokesperson on Monday.
Speaking to reporters in New York, Stéphane Dujarric said the UN Personal Envoy on Cyprus María Angela Holguín continues to work with both leaders in Cyprus "including toward progress on the agreed trust-building initiatives, particularly the opening of additional crossing points, as soon as possible."
He noted that Holguín recently concluded her latest visit to the island where she hosted a meeting of the two leaders on January 28.
Political will needed
Recalling the UN Secretary-General’s position, the spokesperson stressed that “the leaders must demonstrate political will in order to maintain momentum, build trust and move forward toward a possible resumption of negotiations.”
He added that UNSG Antonio Guterres will meet with Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman on February 11 at UN headquarters in New York.
“The meeting will be an opportunity to meet the new leader of the Turkish Cypriot community for the first time and to discuss the Cyprus issue,” he said.
He also said Guterres will also have the opportunity to speak with President Nikos Christodoulides in due course.
Trilateral came up short
Following last month’s trilateral with the two leaders, the UN Personal Envoy noted the lack of progress, ruling out a new enlarged ‘5+1’ meeting with the guarantor powers under the UNSG’s auspices.
In an interview with Politis to the point, Holguín said the minimum requirement to move forward is “a shared commitment to engage in good faith”. A new ‘5+1’ cannot be a substitute for the political will of the leaders, she warned.
Progress depends on political will and an inclusive dialogue, said Holguín, adding that trust cannot be rebuilt through statements alone, but through “sustained and daily actions” that demonstrate reliability and mutual benefit.
The UN envoy called on the leaders to engage with the public to build understanding and support for a solution, assuring them that their daily lives will not be disrupted.