The UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed recent progress achieved in Cyprus.
The UN Chief called on Cypriots to build on the momentum and make great strides towards reunification.
“A window of opportunity for Cypriots to finally resolve the Cyprus problem is clearly open,” Mr. Ban wrote in his latest report to the Security Council on the work of the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus or UNFICYP.
He said that it is “particularly heartening” that the leaders of the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities have taken important steps towards resuming negotiations.
“What is especially encouraging is that the leaders reconfirmed, at their meeting on the 23rd of May, the broad outline of a solution, based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality, as defined by the Security Council in its relevant resolutions” the UN Chief said.
He also noted that partnership, announced by the two leaders after a UN-backed meeting, is to comprise a Federal Government with a single international personality, along with a Turkish Cypriot Constituent State and a Greek Cypriot Constituent State, which will be of equal status.
‘The recent opening of the long-closed crossing at Ledra Street between the two communities in Nicosia illustrates what can be achieved with the political will needed to address problems’ he added.
Mr. Ban voiced his firm support for the talks between the two leaders later this month, and said he will appoint a Special Adviser.
But he warned that “the coming period will not be easy and may require major compromises,” stressing the importance of fostering an environment favorable to pressing ahead towards a settlement.
The Secretary-General also recommended the extension of UNFICYP’s mandate for an additional six months, in spite of recent positive steps.