**Christodoulides and Erhurman Prepare for Final Meeting Ahead of UN General Assembly**
Nicosia, Cyprus – President Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman are set to hold their final meeting before the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in New York on Thursday, September 17. The meeting is scheduled for 11 am and is anticipated to address key issues surrounding the ongoing division of Cyprus.
In a recent statement to the Turkish Cypriot newspaper Yeni Duzen, President Christodoulides emphasized that the two sides currently do not possess an alternative strategy, asserting that the only viable resolution to the longstanding conflict is the reunification of Cyprus. He noted that the existing status quo hinders the island’s ability to fully realize its potential.
The leaders' previous meeting, which took place at the old Nicosia airport, focused on three primary areas: methodology, substance, and confidence-building measures. Following that session, Christodoulides reported that while there was a “common understanding” on certain topics, significant disagreements and differing perspectives persist on others.
Erhurman, in his remarks after the meeting, urged Christodoulides to avoid initiatives that could undermine trust between the two communities. He expressed concern over the inability to reach an agreement on new confidence-building measures, which he deemed crucial for fostering a positive atmosphere for dialogue. He reiterated the importance of creating a conducive climate, as highlighted by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, which requires both the introduction of new confidence-building measures and a cessation of actions that could further erode trust.
Erhurman also criticized the Republic of Cyprus for its cancellation of international events in the Turkish-held north, including a children’s football camp organized by FC Barcelona and a music festival in Kyrenia. He raised objections to the arrests made by the Republic concerning individuals accused of illegally using or selling properties in the occupied north that were previously owned by Greek Cypriots. Additionally, he highlighted concerns regarding the Republic's strengthening ties with Israel, indicating that such actions complicate the already delicate relationship between the two communities.
The Turkish Cypriot leader remarked, “It is evident to everyone, not only to Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots, but also to the international community, that writing history together is by no means an easy task.”
As the leaders prepare for their final meeting before the UN Assembly, they are expected to navigate these complex issues in hopes of advancing the dialogue surrounding the reunification of Cyprus. Negotiator Menelaos Menelaou is also scheduled to meet with Erhurman’s special representative, Mehmet Dana, tomorrow afternoon, further indicating ongoing discussions in the lead-up to the international gathering.
The outcome of these meetings may play a significant role in shaping the future of Cyprus, as both leaders strive to address the challenges that have historically hindered progress towards a peaceful resolution. The international community will be closely watching the developments as they unfold in the coming days.