Cyprus Leaders Discuss Reunification Talks in New York

Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders recently met in New York for informal discussions aimed at reviving stalled reunification talks, facilitated by U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. During the meeting, Guterres encouraged both leaders, Nikos Christodoulides and Ersin Tatar, to narrow their differences and rebuild trust, resulting in an agreement to convene again in the near future. The leaders are considering the opening of new crossings as a means to foster cooperation, while their positions on potential settlement structures remain divergent. Guterres is expected to propose a two-phase approach to negotiations, focusing first on internal governance issues before involving the guarantor powers of Greece, Turkey, and the UK to address security concerns. The outcome of the meeting is seen as pivotal for the future of the peace process, amidst ongoing political crises in the region. Both sides have expressed a readiness to resume discussions, although significant differences persist regarding the framework for potential agreements.