President Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar held talks on Monday under UN auspices but failed to reach an agreement on opening new crossing points.
The meeting, hosted by UN Special Representative Colin Stewart at his residence near Nicosia airport, followed up on an informal dinner with the UN Secretary-General in New York on 15 October.
In a written statement, the UN said the leaders had “an open and constructive discussion” about new crossing points, which they believe are “critical to promote people-to-people contacts, strengthen economic ties, and build trust”.
#HappeningNow: Top @UN official in #Cyprus, Colin Stewart, hosts the Greek Cypriot leader, @Christodulides and the Turkish Cypriot leader, @ErsinrTatar, at a meeting to explore the possibility of opening new crossing points. #UNCyprusTalks 🕊️🤝 pic.twitter.com/5huECf8FJz
— UN Cyprus (@UN_CYPRUS) January 20, 2025
Christodoulides presented an eight-point proposal package, which included plans for crossing points and other confidence-building measures such as advisory committees and youth initiatives. However, Tatar requested more time to consider the proposals.
“Mr Tatar said he was not ready to make decisions today. He asked for time, the negotiators will continue discussions and we will meet again when he is ready”, Christodoulides told reporters afterwards.
Tatar proposed opening a new crossing point at Louroujina for the first time, but rejected the Greek Cypriot suggestion for a crossing at Kokkina, citing its military status. He also expressed concerns about the proposed crossing at Athienou.
The Turkish Cypriot leader highlighted the significance of existing crossings, noting that there are currently 8 million crossings annually between the two communities. “We must make an effort because this is a significant number. It is our responsibility to make life easier for Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots”, Tatar said.
The talks build on previous discussions between negotiators about potential crossings at Pyroi and Kokkina from the Republic of Cyprus, and Mia Milia from the Turkish Cypriot side.
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