Christodoulides Sees Positive Signs on Cyprus Problem, Announcements Possible Over the Weekend

Paphos, Cyprus. President Nikos Christodoulides said on Thursday that the Cyprus problem appears to be heading in a favourable direction. He said Maria Angela Holguin, the personal envoy of the UN secretary-general, had told him in a telephone call that particular announcements might emerge over the weekend.

Waiting for final answers

Christodoulides spoke to reporters during a visit to the Ayios Charalambos Lyceum and Technical School in Emba, Paphos. He said the process had reached a stage where final responses were awaited. In his words, the information available so far suggests the process is moving towards positive outcomes.

Related: Christodoulides says progress is possible on Cyprus problem after meeting UN envoy Holguin

RelatedChristodoulides says progress is possible on Cyprus problem after meeting UN envoy Holguin

He added that the UN secretary-general is receiving constant updates. He said he sincerely hopes there will be positive developments to announce, in line with what he is hearing through the personal envoy.

Fidan visit and crossing points

Asked about reports that Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan was expected to travel to the occupied north on Friday, the president said he knew nothing about the possible trip beyond what he had read in the press.

Asked whether the expected developments related to opening more crossing points, Christodoulides said the talks cover wider ground. He recalled that the initiative launched right after the UN secretary-general’s visit to Cyprus addresses methodology, substance and confidence-building measures. “The discussion is broader,” he stressed.

Push for resumed negotiations

The president said that “the concern and desire of the Cypriot people are entirely justified.” He said this is what he is working towards, and that he therefore keeps submitting proposals and approaches. He said he genuinely believes these can lead to a resumption of negotiations, provided there is political will.