Diplomatic efforts intensify ahead of Cyprus trilateral summit

UN Secretary-General’s personal envoy, Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar, is intensifying diplomatic contacts in Nicosia to prepare for a critical trilateral meeting scheduled for November 9, 2026. Following a 90-minute preparatory session with Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman on November 2, Holguin expressed optimism regarding the potential for resuming formal negotiations. Meanwhile, President Nikos Christodoulides has scheduled a follow-up meeting with Holguin for November 3 at 15:15, where he expects responses to specific Greek Cypriot proposals and a review of topics discussed during recent consultations.

Holguin is also set to meet with delegations from the municipalities of Famagusta and Morphou on Saturday, November 7, at Nicosia airport. Famagusta Mayor Simos Ioannou intends to present proposals regarding the return of the fenced-off area of Varosha to its inhabitants under UN administration, potentially linked to the opening of the city’s port under EU supervision. These efforts occur as the international community seeks to revive the peace process before the conclusion of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's tenure at the end of 2026. Despite the diplomatic activity, critics note the persistent lack of political will, as the parties remain divided over methodology and confidence-building measures.