Cypriot Greek negotiator Menelaos Menelau made important statements regarding the Cyprus issue during a recent event. He conveyed his criticisms regarding the stagnation and obstacles faced in the negotiations. According to various media reports, Menelau’s statements targeted Turkey and the Turkish Cypriot side.
Menelaos claimed that both Turkey and the Turkish Cypriot side hinder the progress of negotiations, even regarding low-level political matters. He pointed out that Ankara’s insistence on a “solution based on two separate states” contradicts the messages from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who emphasized that negotiations should only progress within the current federal model.
Menelau stated that the UN is continuing its efforts to restart negotiations within a federal framework for the resolution of the Cyprus issue. He also noted that the Greek Cypriot side has responded positively to proposals regarding crossing points, while the Turkish Cypriot side still maintains a negative stance.
During the program, Menelaos Menelau also claimed that the Greek Cypriot side has agreed to the simultaneous opening of the crossing points “Athienu (Kiracıköy)-Eylence-Mias Milias (Haspolat).” This is regarded as an important detail concerning the ongoing negotiations with the UN.
Development of Negotiations with the UN
Menelau stated that the special experts from the UN are continuing their work aimed at restarting the negotiations regarding the Cyprus issue. He expressed that the goal is the reunification of the island alongside a comprehensive solution to the Cyprus problem. He emphasized that there needs to be an agreement between both sides to achieve a lasting resolution in Cyprus.
He also referred to the 5+1 format meetings, mentioning that preparations are underway to hold these meetings despite the difficulties. He noted that a significant phase of the meeting is the approval of the consensus report prepared by constitutional experts by the UN.
Furthermore, Menelau indicated that the specified constitutional expert has not yet arrived in Cyprus, but their work has commenced. Providing more detailed information about the obstacles in the crossing points and negotiations, Menelau asserted that the Turkish side has a tendency to cause stalemates, negatively impacting the negotiation processes.
Conclusions and Expectations
It was emphasized that in order to overcome the obstacles to the negotiations aimed at resolving the Cyprus issue, both sides need to act in cooperation. Menelau stated that both sides must adopt a constructive attitude to pave the way for solutions and a peaceful process.
In conclusion, Menelaos Menelau’s statements aim to contribute to a better understanding of the challenges and potential solutions regarding the resolution of the Cyprus issue. It was highlighted that the negotiations based on a federation, which is considered critical for the future of Cyprus, must continue.
Source: www.yeniduzen.com
