**Nicosia Seeks ‘Substantive Discussion’ at Upcoming Leaders’ Meeting**
Nicosia is preparing for a significant meeting between Greek Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman, scheduled for August 26. The Greek Cypriot side is aiming for a "substantive discussion" during this encounter, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The meeting is set against the backdrop of recent discussions prompted by UN Secretary-General António Guterres's visit to Cyprus in late July. During his visit, Guterres met with both leaders and indicated that a new expanded meeting on the Cyprus problem could be convened if the appropriate preconditions are established. The upcoming leaders' meeting is expected to focus on the issues raised during Guterres's discussions, particularly as they relate to preparations for this larger gathering.
In anticipation of the leaders' meeting, negotiators from both sides are expected to convene in the days leading up to the August 26 meeting. This preparatory dialogue is seen as crucial for setting the stage for a constructive exchange between Christodoulides and Erhurman.
Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis emphasized that President Christodoulides will approach the meeting with a "constructive attitude." The Greek Cypriot government is particularly interested in making progress on various issues, including the potential opening of new crossing points between the two communities on the island.
However, the path to a resolution remains complex. Turkish Cypriot ‘foreign minister’ Tahsin Ertugruloglu expressed skepticism regarding the effectiveness of declarations of goodwill from both sides. He pointed out that despite decades of negotiations and a mutual desire for a settlement, tangible results have yet to materialize. Ertugruloglu echoed sentiments expressed by Erhurman, reaffirming the Turkish Cypriot side's commitment to finding a solution to the Cyprus problem, while also questioning the reasons behind the ongoing stalemate in negotiations.
As both sides prepare for the upcoming meeting, the focus will be on fostering dialogue that could lead to meaningful advancements in resolving the longstanding issues surrounding the Cyprus problem. The outcome of this meeting may pave the way for future discussions and potential breakthroughs in the peace process.