The UN is preparing a new initiative on Cyprus: talks could resume as early as summer

According to Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot media, UN Secretary-General António Guterres may launch a new initiative on the Cyprus settlement as early as June or July. This is not yet about the full resumption of talks, but rather about preparing a framework plan that would allow the sides to return to the dialogue table by the end of 2026.

According to the options under discussion, the new process could be based on the formulation that the island’s current status quo is unacceptable, while the ultimate goal remains a comprehensive solution based on political equality, as provided for in UN Security Council resolutions.

It is expected that the sides may agree to a “phased and result-oriented process” built on previously reached agreements and accompanied by specific implementation stages.

The key obstacle remains the sides’ differing approaches to the resumption of talks. President of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides insists on continuing the dialogue from the point at which it stopped in Crans-Montana in 2017. The Turkish Cypriot side, led by Tufan Erhürman, is demanding new guarantees, including clear time limits for the talks and a mechanism that would rule out a return to the previous status quo in the event of another failure.

One possible compromise is described as a “step-by-step approach” providing mutual incentives for both sides. Among the ideas under discussion is the possible opening of Varosha in exchange for international recognition of Ercan Airport.

Experts note that even limited progress in the talks could reduce tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean, strengthen regional security, and make it easier for Cyprus to advance on a number of European tracks, including prospects for joining the Schengen Area.