Letimbiotis Says European Commission To Appoint New Cyprus Envoy Soon

According to statements reported in the Greek Cypriot press, Hahn stepped down following his appointment as Governor of the Austrian Central Bank. Letimbiotis said the government had been informed of Hahn’s intention to resign, noting that the diplomat formally communicated his decision in a letter to Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides.

In his letter, Hahn reportedly expressed regret over his departure while underlining the importance of resolving the Cyprus issue for improving the daily lives of Cypriots, ensuring the effective implementation of EU policies, and safeguarding stability and security in the Eastern Mediterranean. He also cited the increased responsibilities and limited time associated with his new role as reasons for stepping down.

Letimbiotis further revealed that the matter was discussed last week in Brussels during a meeting between Christodoulides and Ursula von der Leyen.

Meanwhile, additional media reports suggested that Hahn’s resignation comes at a time when there has been little tangible progress on the Cyprus issue. References were made to earlier remarks by Maria Angela Holguín, who indicated that conditions were not yet ripe for a substantive political breakthrough.

Some reports also claimed that Hahn’s decision may have been influenced not only by his new appointment but also by frustration over the lack of momentum in negotiations and what was perceived as limited willingness among the parties during his contacts in Nicosia.

The European Commission is now expected to move forward with appointing a new special representative as part of ongoing efforts to maintain EU engagement in the Cyprus issue.