Press Releases

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomes the unanimous adoption of the 2771 United Nations Security Council Resolution on the renewal of the mandate of the United Nation Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) for another 12 months, until January 31 2026.

In its resolution, the Security Council reaffirms all its relevant resolutions on Cyprus and recalls the importance of achieving an enduring, comprehensive and just settlement of the Cyprus issue based on a bicommunal, bizonal federation with political equality, as set out in its relevant resolutions.

In this context, the full support which the Security Council extends towards the UN Secretary-General’s efforts to restart negotiations is especially important.

The Security Council reiterates its firm position regarding the status of the fenced-off area of Varosha, in accordance with the relevant Resolutions and its Presidential Statement (A/PRST/2021/13), and calls for the immediate reversal of any action which is not in accordance with these Resolutions. It also reiterates its call to the Turkish forces to restore the military status quo in Strovilia, as it was before June 2000, to lift obstacles in the peacekeeping force’s freedom of movement, and calls for a return to the status quo ante regarding violations in the buffer zone.

Moreover, it is emphasised in the Resolution that the Security Council continues to closely monitor the developments in Pyla, following attacks by the Turkish occupation forces against peacekeepers which took place in August 2023. It also underlines the need to avoid unilateral actions and calls for the implementation of the Consensus reached on Pyla as an important confidence building measure.

The Government of the Republic of Cyprus fully shares the references to the need to take actions that contribute to reducing tensions, creating an appropriate climate, and confidence building, which is even more important given the ongoing processes for a return to negotiations.

In view of the upcoming convening of the expanded meeting under the UN Secretary-General, we reiterate our strong will for practical and constructive support of the efforts of the Secretary-General to resume the negotiations and achieve a comprehensive and just solution to the Cyprus issue on the basis of the agreed upon framework.

(AP/IA)