Prospects for Cyprus reunification remain alive but fresh ideas are needed to unblock a stagnated process, United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres told the Security Council in a report on his good offices mission.
There is no new process on the horizon, but UN envoy Jane Holl Lute will continue discussions to gauge the true extent of convergence on key issues and the willingness of the sides to incorporate novel proposals as part of an overall solution toward a common, envisaged future.
“I believe that prospects for a comprehensive settlement between the communities on the island remain alive, notwithstanding the well-known history of the UN’s efforts to broker peace between the communities and the remaining work that the parties must undertake to overcome the challenges that have, to date, impeded resolution," said Guterres report.
He said there was no support for an endless process without results and that lack of a resolution on the Cyprus issue – “is not sustainable."
"I believe that all Cypriots deserve a common future that one thing alone can bring: a lasting agreement achieved within a clear horizon," Guterres said.
"I also acknowledge that new ideas may additionally be needed in order for a fresh effort to bear fruit," he added.
The UN SG said the way ahead must be well prepared, with a sense of urgency and focus to seize the willingness of the two sides to negotiate.
Which is why Lute is being sent back to Cyprus to check the pulse of the leaders’ willingness once again.
"Prior to resuming full-fledged negotiations, the sides should agree on terms of reference that would constitute the consensus starting point for a possible negotiated conclusion to the Cyprus issue."
Guterres urged President Nicos Anastasiades and Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci "to mobilize their creativity and commitment to help their communities understand and support the aim of a durable solution."
He added: "I believe deeply in the vitality, energy and strength of the island’s population, including especially its women and youth, and I urge their greater engagement to help build the necessary confidence to take the steps that such a solution will require."
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third.
Repeated attempts at UN-led peace talks have all failed to yield any tangible results.
The last round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana crashed in flames and the leaders haven’t negotiated since then.
