Fitto's mission outlined
Raffaele Fitto, the European Commission's Special Envoy on the Cyprus issue, is currently visiting Cyprus to meet with the Cypriot president and Turkish Cypriot leader. The envoy emphasized the European Union's clear intention to take on a crucial role in the United Nations process aimed at resolving the Cyprus issue.
During his meeting with President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, Fitto highlighted the EU's commitment to supporting the peace process. He underlined the importance of actively listening to the positions of both sides to help move things forward.
Next steps and timing
Fitto announced his plan to return to Cyprus in the coming months, expressing hope that significant progress could be made during that time. He stated that it is crucial for the EU to closely follow the UN process to ensure its positive impact.
Cyprus's Foreign Minister, Constantinos Kombos, described the meeting as particularly constructive and useful. He mentioned that both the immediate steps and Fitto's future interactions with the involved parties were discussed.
Leveraging EU-Turkey relations
Kombos noted that the relationship between the European Union and Turkey could be used to drive fresh momentum toward a settlement. He added that Fitto's established communication channels with Turkey strengthen his position as an envoy.
The Cypriot side has several proposals under active discussion, with the aim of possibly speeding up the process before António Guterres's term as UN Secretary-General ends in December. Kombos pointed out that the conditions for progress are being worked on, but the key to success remains in Ankara's hands.
Fitto's next meeting and UN support
Following his meeting with Nikos Christodoulides, Fitto is set to meet with Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman. This visit comes shortly after UN Secretary-General António Guterres's recent engagement in Cyprus, during which he outlined plans for a new, broader meeting provided sufficient groundwork is done.
The European Commission has confirmed Fitto's mission as a support role in the settlement process under UN leadership. He will work closely with the Secretary-General's personal envoy, María Ángela Holguín, and engage with all relevant parties.
EU's active role and vision
The European Union has declared its readiness to play an active role in the Cyprus issue by utilizing its available resources and expertise. It has reaffirmed its support for a solution based on a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation model that aligns with UN Security Council resolutions and the European acquis.