UN envoy prepares for critical trilateral Cyprus talks

United Nations Personal Envoy Maria Angela Holguin is preparing for a pivotal trilateral meeting scheduled for Monday at the old Nicosia airport, involving the leaders of the two Cypriot communities. The primary objective of this session is to finalize a package of Confidence Building Measures (CBMs), which reportedly include proposals for opening four new crossing points at Mia Milia, Athienou-Pyroi-Aglandjia, Louroujina-Lympia, and Kampos-Karavostasi. Additional measures under discussion involve environmental protection, demining efforts, and the establishment of a bicommunal rapid response team for natural disasters.

Holguin has emphasized that Monday’s outcome is critical for the future of the peace process. She explicitly stated that if no progress is achieved, there will be no 5+1 conference, as the UN Secretary-General wants to avoid any meetings that lack sufficient preparation. A failed attempt could cause significant damage to the prospects of resolving the Cyprus problem. As her mandate concludes in December, Holguin noted that if Monday’s meeting proves unproductive, she will submit her final report to the Secretary-General, who will then transition the matter to his successor. The envoy remains cautiously optimistic but underscored that this initiative represents a final opportunity to restart meaningful negotiations.