UN Chief Guterres Hosts Key Cyprus Talks in Geneva
On March 16, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres arrived in Geneva, Switzerland, to facilitate critical discussions regarding the ongoing Cyprus issue. The informal meeting, which included the two Cypriot leaders and the Guarantor Powers—Greece, Türkiye, and the United Kingdom—was part of Guterres’s efforts to mediate a resolution. The talks, held from March 17 to 18, aimed to foster constructive dialogue and explore pathways forward for Cyprus.
Significant Discussions on Cyprus
The informal meeting convened by Guterres was designed to create a platform for meaningful dialogue among the involved parties. This initiative follows an agreement made by the Cypriot leaders on October 15, 2024, to engage in discussions facilitated by the UN. The Secretary-General emphasized the UN’s commitment to supporting the leaders and the people of Cyprus throughout this process.
The meeting kicked off with a dinner hosted by Guterres on the evening of March 17, where the leaders and representatives from the Guarantor Powers gathered to discuss the pressing issues surrounding Cyprus. Earlier that day, Guterres visited the construction site of the Portail des Nations, a new visitor center at the UN campus in Geneva, which aims to enhance the visitor experience and promote awareness of the UN’s work.
Outcomes and Future Initiatives
On March 18, Guterres held bilateral meetings with the Cypriot leaders and the Guarantor Powers, culminating in a plenary session at the Palais des Nations. Following these discussions, the Secretary-General addressed the media, highlighting the constructive atmosphere of the talks. He reported that both sides demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing dialogue and agreed on several initiatives aimed at building trust.
Among the initiatives discussed were plans to open four crossing points, demining efforts, the establishment of a technical committee focused on youth, and environmental initiatives, including solar energy projects in the buffer zone. The leaders also agreed to restore cemeteries and to reconvene for another meeting in the same format by the end of July. Additionally, a Personal Envoy will be appointed to facilitate the next steps in the peace process.
Addressing Broader Regional Issues
During the press conference, Guterres also addressed the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, expressing deep concern over the suffering of the Palestinian people amid escalating violence. He called for immediate action on three critical fronts: ensuring a ceasefire, allowing unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza, and securing the unconditional release of hostages. Guterres reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to these objectives, stating, “We will not give up on these goals.”
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