Dujarric: Holguin to Meet Guterres in New York Within Days

Speaking at a press briefing, Dujarric said Holguin’s activities demonstrated the UN’s continued engagement in the Cyprus issue and should be seen as an indication that she continues to work on the issue on behalf of Guterres.

Holguin is expected to visit Cyprus during the first 10 days of September and is reportedly expected to bring with her a record of areas of agreement reached between the two sides, compiled by UN official John McGarry.

According to Haravgi, the UN Secretary-General wants to exhaust all available options and advance the preparatory work being carried out by the UN. The document outlining areas of agreement is expected to be shared with all parties involved, who would then be asked to submit their views.

The newspaper said negotiators are scheduled to meet on September 7, followed by a leaders’ meeting on September 9.

Dujarric reiterated that substantial discussions and adequate preparation would be required before another expanded 5+1 meeting could be held. He also said the UN continues to cooperate with both the Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot leaderships.

Meanwhile, Alithia reported that the UN’s position makes clear that a new 5+1 meeting is not automatic and that serious preparatory work must take place beforehand.

The newspaper said Holguin would brief Guterres on progress and shortcomings in the preparations, while the September 9 leaders’ meeting has gained greater importance following the postponement of an earlier meeting due to the deadly maritime accident off Kyrenia.

According to the report, the key question is what the “serious discussions” demanded by the UN will entail and what outcome would be considered sufficient to pave the way for another 5+1 meeting.