The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has recommended a 12-month extension of the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), citing its “continued contribution to peace and stability” on the island.
In his latest report released on January 13, 2025, Guterres welcomed commitments made by the two Cypriot leaders on October 15 to explore opening new checkpoints between the communities.
The report, which covers developments from June 13 to December 11, 2024, follows an informal dinner in New York where Guterres met with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar.
However, Guterres expressed concern over military activities in and around the buffer zone, noting “little concrete progress” in halting militarisation.
He highlighted “disturbing disregard” for maintaining stable conditions, citing continued large-scale installation of military surveillance equipment despite UNFICYP protests.
The UN chief called on both sides to cease violations and reverse unauthorised construction aimed at permanently altering the military status quo in the buffer zone.
He also expressed concern over incidents challenging ceasefire lines and law enforcement authorities’ disregard for UN authority in the buffer zone.
Regarding Varosha, Guterres reiterated concern over the situation in the fenced area and the lack of response to UN Security Council calls to reverse actions taken since October 2020.
He emphasised that the UN position remains unchanged, referencing Security Council resolutions 550 (1984) and 789 (1992).
The report welcomed progress on asylum seekers, noting all individuals trapped in the buffer zone were eventually admitted to the Republic of Cyprus’s asylum procedures.
However, it expressed regret over continued violent pushbacks of asylum seekers by Republic of Cyprus authorities.
Guterres called for greater economic and social equality between the two sides, noting that efforts for increased cooperation remain limited despite repeated appeals.
He emphasised that increased trade and deeper economic, social, cultural and sports contacts would help strengthen intercommunal relations and address Turkish Cypriot concerns about isolation.
UNFICYP’s mandate extension would run until January 31, 2026.
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