The focus of attention regarding the Cyprus issue is the upcoming briefing to António Guterres by his personal envoy, María Ángela Olguín. Appearing as a guest on the program “Alpha News,” the Greek Cypriot negotiator, Menelaos Menelaou, outlined the next steps, the behind-the-scenes processes, and our side’s inviolable red lines.

Despite changes to Ms. Olgin’s travel schedule due to the NATO Summit, plans to convene an informal five-party meeting do not appear to be directly affected. As Mr. Menelaos stated, “We continue to work based on the scenario, as Ms. Olgin herself had mentioned, that the goal is to hold the meeting in late July or early August.”

At the same time, he emphasized that, following a relevant message from the UN Secretary-General, efforts are now focused exclusively on the substance of the problem and not on the Confidence-Building Measures (CTMs).

Responding to scenarios regarding “outside the box” or a “more flexible” approach that could bridge the gap between a bizonal, bicommunal federation and the Turkish side’s position on two states, Mr. Menelaou was categorical.

“We must be clear on this. We are not engaged in an exercise to find a middle ground between a federation and two states; there is no such thing, nor can we step outside the framework of a federation,” he emphasized.

He also clarified that the United Nations itself is bound by its own resolutions, while the basis on which Nicosia is working remains the acquis and the rounds of talks up to Crans-Montana.

Particular emphasis was placed on the role of the European Union and on how EU-Turkey relations (such as the Customs Union and entry visas) can serve as a catalyst for the resumption of negotiations, provided there is a mutual and reciprocal approach.

The Greek Cypriot negotiator confirmed that intensive preparatory work is underway for the appointment of a European envoy/commissioner, noting that “the presence and assistance of the EU are an integral part of the effort to achieve a solution to the Cyprus problem.” As he noted, the relevant announcements are expected shortly, with the consent of the United Nations.

Finally, Mr. Menelaou referred to the ongoing processes at the technical level and within civil society. Specifically, the members of the Coordinating Committee for the Civil Society Advisory Body are expected to be announced shortly; which will consist of five Greek Cypriots and five Turkish Cypriots.

In addition, discussions are continuing on the development of a six-month plan for religious services across the island, as well as talks on trade issues and products with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) through the relevant technical subcommittees.