Christodoulides: UN has reached the “substance” of the Cyprus issue, Cyprus is ready for talks

The President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, stated that the UN Secretary-General's new initiative for a Cyprus settlement has already moved to discussing key issues, and the Cypriot side is ready to engage promptly in the process.

Speaking to journalists in Nicosia, the head of state noted that the active phase of the initiative began following the UN Secretary-General's meetings with the President of Turkey, as well as talks with the Cypriot side in Brussels in March.

“The Secretary-General has proceeded to work on the substance of the Cyprus issue, and we are ready to respond if he deems that the process has reached the necessary maturity,” Christodoulides emphasized, adding that a potential invitation to negotiations could follow in the near future.

The President also rejected claims that domestic political processes, including elections or Cyprus's EU presidency, are hindering the progress of talks. According to him, delays are linked to the position of the Turkish side, which he believes is not seeking to activate dialogue during the current period.

Commenting on criticism from Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman regarding defense agreements with other countries, Christodoulides stated that Cyprus would continue to develop international cooperation.

He emphasized that he acts simultaneously as the leader of the Greek Cypriot community and as the president of a recognized state — a member of the EU and the UN. “The Republic of Cyprus will continue to sign agreements that strengthen its international status and allow it to respond to modern challenges,” he noted.

The President's statements indicate Nicosia's readiness for a potential resumption of talks under UN auspices, while highlighting the intention to simultaneously strengthen the country's international standing.