**Greek Cypriot Side Accuses Turkish Cypriot Leadership of Obstruction Following New York Talks**
In a recent statement, the Greek Cypriot negotiator Menelaos Menelaou has accused the Turkish Cypriot side of engaging in a "pattern of obstruction" that is hindering progress toward renewed negotiations regarding the long-standing Cyprus issue. His comments came after unsuccessful discussions in New York aimed at organizing a trilateral meeting involving Greek Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman, and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
Menelaou spoke to the media on Monday, emphasizing that the Greek Cypriot side left New York with a commitment from Guterres to explore all possible avenues for progress until the end of his term. He highlighted that the ultimate goal remains to convene an expanded meeting that would facilitate a decision to resume formal negotiations.
Despite the setbacks, Menelaou noted that preparatory work is ongoing and that "significant steps" have already been taken. However, he expressed concern over what he termed "delaying tactics" employed by the Turkish Cypriot side, which he believes are obstructing the process. He stated, "The objective was for the process to move forward as soon as possible," and lamented that it should have progressed further by now.
Menelaou asserted that the conditions for advancing the negotiations are favorable, citing the determination of the UN Secretary-General and the substantial progress made in preparatory work. He underscored the importance of taking the next step to revitalize the negotiating process, while ensuring the preservation of the negotiations' acquis from the previous efforts, which concluded in the summer of 2017 in Crans-Montana.
He also reiterated that Guterres' approach to the Cyprus problem is comprehensive and encompasses all relevant aspects, referencing the six points proposed by the UN chief during the 2017 talks. Menelaou stressed that these points are crucial for achieving a comprehensive settlement that addresses all dimensions of the Cyprus issue.
Regarding the failed trilateral meeting in New York, Menelaou indicated that both the Greek Cypriot side and the UN had made concerted efforts to facilitate the meeting up until the last moment. He mentioned that the Greek Cypriot side was even willing to extend its stay in New York to make the meeting possible. However, he lamented that these efforts were ultimately thwarted by what he described as a broader pattern of obstruction from the Turkish side.
In light of the recent developments, President Christodoulides plans to convene a meeting of the National Council on Wednesday to brief its members and discuss the current state of affairs concerning the Cyprus problem. This meeting will serve as an opportunity for the Greek Cypriot leadership to assess the situation and strategize their next steps in the ongoing negotiations.
The Cyprus issue, which has persisted for decades, remains a complex and sensitive topic involving historical grievances, territorial disputes, and questions of governance. The international community, particularly through the United Nations, continues to seek a resolution that would lead to a reunified Cyprus. The recent talks in New York were seen as a critical step in this ongoing effort, and the Greek Cypriot side's accusations of obstruction highlight the challenges that remain in achieving meaningful progress.
As the situation develops, both sides will likely continue to engage with the UN and each other in hopes of finding common ground and moving forward in the peace process.