Nicosia, Cyprus. The government welcomed the UN Security Council’s decision to renew the mandate of the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus (Unficyp) until January 31, 2027. It reaffirmed support for renewed negotiations aimed at a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem.
Government reaction
In a statement issued on Saturday, the foreign ministry said the continued presence of Unficyp remains essential “as long as the Turkish occupation continues”. It added that the government would maintain close and constructive cooperation with the peacekeeping force to ensure effective implementation of its mandate.
Security Council vote and mandate update
The Security Council adopted Resolution 2815 (2026) late on Friday with 13 votes in favour and two abstentions, by Pakistan and Somalia. The resolution extends Unficyp’s mandate for another year without altering the core of its mission, while updating elements to reflect political and operational developments on the ground.
Support for a comprehensive settlement
The resolution strongly reaffirms the UN’s commitment to a “comprehensive and just solution” based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality, warning that the current status quo is “unsustainable” and risks “irreversible changes on the ground”. It states that “the lack of an agreement deepens political tensions and widens the distance between the two communities,” and cautions that this could further undermine prospects for a settlement.
Calls to resume negotiations
Nicosia welcomed the Security Council’s firm backing of the UN Secretary-General’s efforts to resume negotiations and expressed hope for a rapid return to talks in line with relevant UN resolutions. “We look forward to a swift resumption of negotiations for a comprehensive solution,” the foreign ministry said.
Varosha, Strovilia and the buffer zone
The resolution reiterates calls for the reversal of unilateral actions in Varosha and warns that further steps could provoke a response from the Security Council. It also calls for the restoration of the status quo in Strovilia and across the buffer zone.
What steps do you think are needed to enable a swift resumption of negotiations?