Cyprus’ president briefed members of the National Council on the latest developments in the Cyprus issue and on contacts currently under way under UN auspices.
Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said after the meeting that all political parties acknowledged the renewed momentum created by the UN secretary‑general’s latest initiative. He said the Republic of Cyprus is in constant communication with the UN with the aim of convening a new informal expanded meeting that could serve as a springboard for restarting negotiations.
Letymbiotis said safeguarding the existing negotiating framework remains the government’s objective, adding that the Greek Cypriot side will make full use of any initiative by the secretary‑general. He noted that all political forces welcomed the UN effort and stressed the need for unity.
Leaders of the six parliamentary parties also made statements.
DISY leader Annita Demetriou said this is a moment that requires neither exaggeration nor complacency but unity, as new possibilities are emerging. She said Turkey’s ambitions regarding the European Union could act as leverage — provided Ankara abandons its demand for a two‑state solution.
AKEL secretary‑general Stefanos Stefanou reiterated his party’s position that talks should resume from where they left off at Crans‑Montana in 2017, preserving existing convergences and using the Guterres framework. He said the goal must be a strategic understanding that opens the way to a comprehensive settlement.
ELAM leader Christos Christou repeated his party’s opposition to a bizonal, bicommunal federation and said the Republic must clarify its conditions and objectives before any new negotiating process.
DIKO leader Nikolas Papadopoulos expressed support for the president’s initiatives and backed the swift convening of an expanded international conference. He also underlined the role the EU can play in applying pressure and offering incentives to Ankara.
Alma movement leader Odysseas Michaelides described the Guterres initiative as a favourable moment and a “window of opportunity” before the end of the UN chief’s term.
Fidias Panayiotou, head of the Direct Democracy movement, said his party will consult its members and supporters before deciding its stance on the bizonal, bicommunal federation.
