The resumption of discussions of the Cyprus issue under the auspices of the United Nations Secretary-General represents a significant and encouraging step forward, Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis stated in an interview with Greece’s public broadcaster ERT, following the conclusion of an informal, expanded-format meeting at UN headquarters in New York.

Cyprus Issue Back on the UN Agenda

“Eight years after the collapse of the Crans-Montana talks and the subsequent stagnation, it is extremely important that the Cyprus issue is once again at the top of the Secretary-General’s agenda,” Gerapetritis emphasized. He highlighted the recent appointment of a Personal Envoy by the UN chief, tasked with closely monitoring developments and pushing forward the process.

During the meeting, participants reviewed the implementation of six Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs) agreed in Geneva. Of those, four have already been put into effect, with another four now added to the list. This progress, according to the minister, lays “fertile ground” for a more meaningful discussion aimed at reaching a lasting solution based on UN Security Council Resolutions.

The Message of a United Cyprus

“In a world plagued by civil strife, wars, and intolerance, the message of a unified Cyprus is more urgent than ever,” Gerapetritis said, underscoring the necessity of continuing efforts toward the island’s reunification — a “national objective” pursued in close coordination with the Republic of Cyprus.

He concluded by stressing the importance of Greece’s unwavering commitment to this effort: “It is especially vital that the Greek government, in full harmony with the Republic of Cyprus, continues this major endeavor — the national goal of reuniting the island.”