U.N. Paves Path for Cyprus Peace Talks with Leaders

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will hold informal talks with Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders in New York in October to discuss the Cyprus issue. Both leaders accepted Guterres' invitation and expressed readiness for reunification talks, stalled since 2017. The division stems from a Turkish invasion following a Greek coup.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is set to engage in informal discussions with Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders in New York this October. The aim is to explore a way forward on the long-standing Cyprus issue, according to U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric.

The Cyprus issue has persisted for decades since a Turkish invasion triggered by a Greek-inspired coup. Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides stated at the U.N. General Assembly last week that he is prepared to resume reunification talks immediately, talks that have been stalled since 2017.

The crux of the issue lies in the differing views on a resolution: Turkish Cypriots advocate for a two-state solution supported by Turkey, while Greek Cypriots insist on a bizonal, bicommunal federation as per U.N. resolutions.

(With inputs from agencies.)