Nicosia remains in limbo regarding the Cyprus issue, with no updates from the United Nations about either the proposed five-party meeting or discussions between the two leaders about new checkpoints.
Whilst debate continues in the occupied areas about opening new checkpoints, no official information has been forthcoming.
Meanwhile, Nicosia is closely monitoring developments in the occupied territories and reports about Ankara’s involvement in Turkish Cypriot community politics.
President Nikos Christodoulides, speaking at a Democracy Dialogue event at the Presidential Palace, addressed concerns about Greek Cypriot property rights in occupied areas.
He stated that only a comprehensive solution to the Cyprus problem would permanently resolve refugee issues, whilst noting that property rights remain an individual matter.
In a parallel development, the Athienou Municipality has taken a firm stance on checkpoints.
During a meeting with President Christodoulides, Mayor Kyriakos Kareklas, accompanied by the full Municipal Council and party representatives, declared they would oppose the opening of any new checkpoints unless the Pyroi crossing is opened.
“We emphasised our unwavering position on opening the Pyroi crossing and stressed that we will not accept the opening of any other checkpoint unless this specific crossing is opened”, Kareklas told CNA.
The mayor said that the President listened to their concerns regarding the checkpoint, which has been a point of contention for 50 years.
The municipality argues that opening the Pyroi crossing is a humanitarian issue that would benefit both Athienou and the surrounding region, including Louroujina, with technical solutions available that would not adversely affect any party’s interests.
