Welcome
Foreign Minister Gabriel after his meeting with the Special Adviser of the UN Secretary-General on Cyprus
Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel issued the following statement today (6 April) after talks with the Special Adviser of the Secretary-General on Cyprus, Espen Barth Eide:
Since 2015, the two sides have been working tirelessly with the backing of the United Nations to reunite Cyprus. Germany fully and wholeheartedly supports this negotiating process, for reunification would be a huge success for everyone involved and for Europe as a whole.
That the negotiations have advanced further than ever before is due in no small part to the commitment shown by Espen Barth Eide and his persistent efforts. I very much welcome the decision by President Anastasiades and Turkish-Cypriot leader Akinci to resume their talks.
Many major stumbling stones have already been removed during the negotiations. The task now is to persevere and to continue working with courage and a willingness to compromise on the final stretch towards an agreement acceptable to all sides. I sincerely wish Espen Barth Eide, President Anastasiades and Turkish-Cypriot leader Akinci every success.
Background information:
The UN Cyprus negotiations on the island’s reunification, which began in May 2015, have been conducted by both sides with great commitment and a readiness to compromise. An agreement is only possible with the consent of the three guarantor powers Greece, the UK and Turkey. Following a break in the negotiations, President Anastasiades and Turkish-Cypriot leader Akinci decided to resume their talks.