Reporting "constructive" discussions on Cyprus, UN Secretary‑General António Guterres announced on Thursday that four previously agreed trust‑building measures have been realized, technical work continues on two others, and the parties have agreed to expand cooperation on youth, environment, culture and civil society.
Mr. Guterres was speaking to reporters after hosting Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar at the UN Headquarters in New York.
"Today's discussions were constructive. Both leaders reviewed the progress on the six initiatives they agreed to in March to build trust," he said.
The six measures include the creation of a technical committee on youth, initiatives on the environment and climate change, restoration of cemeteries, and an agreement on demining that will be closed once the final technical details are established.
"And discussions will continue on the remaining two," the UN chief added, referring to the opening of four crossing points and solar energy in the buffer zone.
New initiatives
In addition, the leaders reached a common understanding on new initiatives, including a consultative body for civil society engagement, exchanging cultural artifacts, improving air quality monitoring, and addressing microplastic pollution.
"It is critical to implement these initiatives - all of them - as soon as possible for the benefit of all Cypriots," Mr. Guterres said.
The Secretary-General also confirmed that he will meet both leaders again during the UN General Assembly's high‑level week in September. Another informal meeting in the same format is planned later this year.
A long road ahead
"There's a long road ahead. And it is important to think about what the future can mean - for all Cypriots," he said.
"But these steps clearly demonstrate a commitment to continuing a dialogue on the way forward and working on initiatives that benefit all Cypriots," he added.
Supporting dialogue
The United Nations has been playing a central role in efforts towards a comprehensive and mutually acceptable settlement to the Cyprus issue, supporting dialogue between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders.
While sufficient common ground has not been found to allow for the resumption of formal negotiations, engagement towards that end continues - including informal meetings convened by the Secretary-General and other top UN officials.
Meanwhile, the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus ( UNFICYP ), deployed since 1964, remains on the ground, helping to maintain stability across the island.
