The Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General to Cyprus, María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar, penned an open letter to the citizens of the country, which was shared with the media ahead of her report to Mr Guterres. In this letter, she sought to convey several messages. We hope that this open letter does not serve as a farewell note.
Regardless of whether we agree or disagree with Ms Holguín’s handling of the situation, we believe the involvement of the UN through its representative is crucial. What is needed, and imperative, is momentum that will lead to the resumption of talks. Only then can the occupation realities be overturned, and Cyprus be truly free.
We await Ms Holguín’s report, which appears to be a factual account. It is the belief of New York that only through such a record will there be a possibility for this endeavour to continue. However, this account must also be objective and devoid of any attempt at a cover-up.
On the matter at hand: The Greek Cypriot side supports the UN framework, which is based on the resolutions and decisions of the Security Council of the organisation. On the other side, the Turkish side insists on a solution outside the UN framework, demanding a two-state solution. This is not only unacceptable but the United Nations should have made it clear to the occupying side that a two-state solution cannot be entertained.
We will refrain from commenting on Ms Holguín’s letter, although we could have been critical of certain aspects. What is paramount at this moment is the momentum witnessed this week at the UN headquarters, and we hope that these efforts will continue.
Both Ms María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar and Mr Colin Stewart are guardians of the principles and decisions of the organisation they represent. The United Nations cannot deviate from its mandate. Therefore, during their separate briefings to the Security Council, they must be unequivocal, without resorting to constructive ambiguities or references that can be interpreted in multiple ways.
Let us remind everyone of the obvious: There is a Turkish occupation of Cyprus, and any solution must primarily address the removal of these occupation realities.
