Cyprus Issue: ‘Rear opportunity’ to seize settlements

The EU’s foreign affairs chief said there is a “Rear opportunity” of reaching an agreement on the Cyprus issue.

“The United Nations work on the ground is critical to building trust. The forthcoming informal 5 + 1 talks by the United Nations provide an opportunity for a resumption of much-needed negotiations. The EU is committed to supporting these efforts,” said by Josep Borrell on Twitter after visiting the Greek Cypriot government.

The United Nations invited the heads of state of government of Turkey and Greece from Cyprus and guarantor from states of Turkey, Greece and Britain for informal talks in Geneva from April 27-29. The European Union personals are also expecting to attend as observers.

Committed talks will benefit the region and the EU, he said.

During his visit to Cyprus, Borrel met with Ersin Tatar, President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

After speaking with Tatar, he said on social media that he stressed “the importance of reaching an agreement on negotiations to finalize and continue the UN process” according to the parameters set.

“The European Union is ready to give its full support to all Cypriots,” he said.

“The Cyprus issue remains unsolved despite a number of attempts over the past two decades, including a failed 2017 UN initiative involving sponsoring states”, he added.

When was the Cyprus divided?

The island has been divided since 1964 when ethnic attacks forced Turkish Cypriots to retreat to enclaves for their safety.

In 1974 the Greek-Cypriot coup to annex Greece led to military intervention by Turkey as a guarantee of protection.

Turkish Cypriots from persecution and violence.

“The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) was founded in 1983.”

Greek Cypriots of south joined the EU in 2004, the same year Greek Cypriots thwarted a United Nations bid – Annan’s plan – to end decades of strife in a referendum.