The Cypriot government is emphasising the importance of preparatory work ahead of an informal conference on the Cyprus issue scheduled for March in Geneva, viewing it as crucial for securing a positive outcome.
President Nikos Christodoulides stressed the significance of substantial preparation during his meeting with UN Deputy Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo.
Nicosia’s focus on preparation stems from two key considerations: ensuring preliminary consensus before the Geneva meeting and preventing a negative outcome that could support Turkey’s narrative against negotiations.
DiCarlo has completed her round of contacts in Nicosia, Athens, and Ankara, and has returned to New York to brief the Secretary-General. Government officials maintain that Turkey’s stance remains the key indicator for the conference’s success.
The Turkish side has shown a more positive approach, Nicosia officials noted, pointing to Ankara’s avoidance of public statements reiterating its traditional positions.
The conference is scheduled for March 17-18, though the United Nations has not yet officially announced these dates.
The Greek Cypriot side has made it clear it will attend the Geneva conference to discuss the substance of the Cyprus issue, not confidence-building measures (CBMs).
President Christodoulides explicitly told DiCarlo that Cyprus would not discuss CBMs before guarantor powers.
In contrast, the Turkish Cypriot side has indicated different objectives, suggesting the informal conference cannot lead to immediate resumption of negotiations and advocating for smaller progressive steps.
President Christodoulides has invited political leaders to accompany him to Geneva, emphasising the importance of unified political representation at the conference.
Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis reaffirmed that Nicosia would not deviate from the agreed framework for resolving the Cyprus issue as defined by UN resolutions.
Regarding new crossing points between the two communities, Letymbiotis said no progress had been made beyond ongoing negotiator meetings, though Cyprus remains ready for further discussions.
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