Negotiators Meet: “No Concrete Progress on Crossing Points, But Technical Progress on CBMs”

Politis reported that while there was no concrete progress on new crossing points, eyes are now turning to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Confidence-building measures discussed

The newspaper, under the headline “Slow but steady steps from the two negotiators on CBMs – All eyes on Guterres,” said Dana and Menelau continued work on items already on the table related to confidence-building measures.

It also noted that the date for the next leaders’ meeting has not yet been set. Citing sources, it said the leaders intend to meet again in the near future, but it remains unclear whether a meeting will take place within April as previously indicated.

Technical progress, but no breakthrough on crossings

Politis reported that the meeting was positive and that several technically oriented CBMs were completed and are expected to be submitted for approval at the next leaders’ meeting.

However, it added that despite broader discussions on new crossing points, there is currently no sign of a substantive breakthrough.

The newspaper also referred to comments by Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman, noting his statements to the Turkish Cypriot press that some tangible progress has been made on CBMs.

Focus shifts to Guterres

Politis wrote that hopes of CBMs creating momentum for a resumption of negotiations are gradually weakening.

It added that all attention is now on UN Secretary-General Guterres, who is reportedly preparing a final attempt before the end of his mandate in December to inject momentum into the process.

The newspaper further claimed that Guterres is seeking ways to build on existing gains in the Cyprus issue without triggering reactions or rejection from Turkey, and is exploring how to involve European dynamics in order to strengthen future prospects.