**Title: Christodoulides Optimistic About Convergences Document Ahead of Holguin Visit**
President Nikos Christodoulides expressed optimism on Saturday regarding the preparation of a document that outlines existing convergences on the Cyprus problem. This document is anticipated to be ready before the upcoming visit of UN envoy Maria Angela Holguin, and it is seen as a potential foundation for an expanded conference and the resumption of negotiations.
During a press briefing, Christodoulides was asked if the document would be finalized in time for Holguin's return to Cyprus. He indicated that it would need to be presented to both sides involved in the negotiations, as well as the guarantor powers. “We hope that this document will be ready,” he stated, emphasizing its potential to facilitate the resumption of talks.
The president elaborated on the importance of the document, suggesting that once an agreement on the convergences is reached, the negotiating framework should be preserved. He proposed that an expanded conference could then be convened to announce the resumption of negotiations based on these existing convergences. “Once we agree on the convergences, we know very well where there are no convergences, where the divergences are, negotiations can restart from the divergences,” he explained.
Christodoulides also mentioned that he is hopeful for progress in the interim, referencing an upcoming meeting with Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman scheduled for the following week. He expressed confidence that there is a significant degree of common understanding on substantive issues and methodologies, as well as discussions on confidence-building measures.
In addition to the negotiations on the Cyprus issue, Christodoulides provided an update on his diplomatic engagements, revealing that he had been informed of the date and time for his bilateral meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during the UN General Assembly in New York. He noted that Guterres would also meet with Erhurman after the official week of the General Assembly. “We are ready on our side and I hope there will be the same political will, the same positive response from all parties involved,” he remarked.
Turning to regional matters, the president highlighted an upcoming trilateral summit involving Cyprus, Greece, and Egypt, set to take place in El Alamein on Tuesday. He indicated that the primary focus of this meeting would be on developments in the wider region and strategies for enhancing cooperation among the three nations. Christodoulides described the summit as significant, noting that Cyprus maintains “excellent relations” with Egypt.
The discussions at the trilateral summit are expected to address how the three countries can contribute to fostering security and cooperation in a region of considerable geostrategic importance. The president also pointed out the increasing attention the European Union is placing on the region, mentioning the upcoming second EU-Gulf summit scheduled for October in Saudi Arabia, which he plans to attend.
When asked if the recently signed Mecca agreement would be a topic of discussion at the trilateral meeting, Christodoulides confirmed that it would be included in the broader dialogue on regional developments. “Certainly, all developments in the region will be discussed,” he stated.
As the political landscape surrounding the Cyprus issue continues to evolve, Christodoulides’ administration remains focused on fostering dialogue and cooperation, both domestically and with international partners. The forthcoming meetings and the anticipated document on convergences are seen as critical steps in the ongoing efforts to resolve the long-standing Cyprus problem.