The upcoming visit of Antonio Costa, the newly elected President of the European Council, to Cyprus is poised to play a significant role in the resumption of negotiations on the longstanding Cyprus problem. Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis emphasized the importance of Costa’s visit in relation to the UN Secretary-General’s recent initiative aimed at reviving talks, underscoring that the EU’s support will be critical for progress.
Costa, who previously served as Portugal’s Prime Minister, will meet with President Nikos Christodoulides at the Presidential Palace on Wednesday. This meeting will kick off a series of discussions that include a tour of the walled city of Nicosia and the Green Line, which divides the island. Following their private meeting, the two leaders will engage in a working lunch with their delegations, highlighting the collaborative efforts needed to tackle this complex issue.
Letymbiotis noted that Costa’s visit comes at a crucial time for the EU, as it prepares to define its priorities for the future. The ongoing division of Cyprus, which has persisted since the 1974 Turkish invasion, remains a pressing issue. Previous attempts at negotiations, including a notable round in July 2017 in Switzerland, have failed to yield a lasting resolution.
This visit is seen as an opportunity for the EU to solidify its role in facilitating discussions between the two sides of Cyprus. As the UN Secretary-General seeks to reignite negotiations, the backing of the EU will be essential in fostering an environment conducive to dialogue and compromise. The eyes of both Cypriots and the international community will be on this pivotal moment, hoping for renewed efforts toward reconciliation and a sustainable solution.
[With info from CNA]