Nicosia mayors to submit joint proposals to UN envoy

On November 5, 2026, the mayors of Nicosia, Charalambos Prountzos, and the northern Nicosia municipality, Mehmet Harmanci, announced their intention to submit joint proposals to the United Nations envoy for the Cyprus issue, Maria Angela Holguin. The meeting is scheduled for November 9, 2026. Both officials emphasized their ongoing commitment to cross-communal collaboration, citing the collaborative environmental project at the Pedieos River as a successful model for urban cooperation despite the city's political division.

During his appearance on the Turkish Cypriot television channel Genç TV, Mehmet Harmanci expressed optimism that intensified diplomatic efforts might lead to the opening of new crossing points. He noted that while a comprehensive agreement on all four proposed crossings remains uncertain, initial progress may involve opening one point from each side. Harmanci stated that Holguin is aiming to secure tangible results regarding confidence-building measures before the current UN Secretary-General’s term ends. Additionally, the mayors' collaborative efforts are occurring against a backdrop of wider diplomatic activity, including Holguin’s meetings with Turkish representatives and the anticipated visit of Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to the region.