Based on the current data surrounding the Cyprus issue, Thursday's meeting between the two leaders under the auspices of Maria Angela Holguín can be considered pivotal. It appears that all parties will aim to send a message that a new effort is underway, following an agreed process whose core elements are essentially defined by the facts on the ground. Timelines are specific, extending to the end of 2026, the achievements of past negotiations are already recorded, and, according to the parties themselves, political will is abundant.
The President of the Republic expresses his determination emphatically, while the Turkish Cypriot leader has spent his entire political journey explaining to his community why the narrative of two separate states would be disastrous for everyone. Therefore, the facts are clear. We believe that both leaders, assisted by the mediating capacity of Maria Angela Holguín, can send an optimistic message as a counterbalance to the disappointment and stagnation that have prevailed over the past eight years since Crans-Montana. The UN envoy is attempting to seize every opportunity that can provide a breath of fresh air for this country.
The European Union appears to be aligned on the same wavelength. The presence of the EU envoy for Cyprus at this time is no coincidence. Johannes Hahn reports directly to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The European official will also meet Tufan Erhürman and will convey his own message of support for the resolution process within the UN framework, in close collaboration with the UN Secretary-General’s personal envoy. Hahn’s engagements will contribute to shaping a framework for UN-EU cooperation. So far, such a framework has not been clearly defined in practice. At present, the EU special envoy has not been directly involved in efforts to bring the two sides closer for the resumption of talks.
The key point remains that the pieces of the puzzle for a dynamic process on the Cyprus issue are gradually coming together. This time, all parties must be clear, taking explicit positions, avoiding vagueness, half-statements, and excuses for delay.