Dialogos

Cyprus FM Reiterates Disappointment with UN's 'Equal Distances' Approach

Published January 14, 2026, 20:01
Cyprus FM Reiterates Disappointment with UN's 'Equal Distances' Approach

The Cyprus Foreign Ministry welcomed the reaffirmed commitment of the UN Secretary-General to restart negotiations on the Cyprus issue, aiming for a sustainable and comprehensive solution, and hailed the holding of substantive discussions on fundamental aspects of the problem after five years. It also expressed its disappointment with the UN's long-standing tendency to maintain 'equal distances,' which leads to a fragmented and inaccurate picture of the situation on the ground. The Foreign Ministry notes that the Government fully shares the Secretary-General's concern about the situation in Varosha, emphasizing that Turkey bears sole responsibility and full compliance with relevant Security Council resolutions is required. It expresses concern over violations of the ceasefire line by the occupying army, especially in the Deryneia area. The announcement stresses that maintaining 'equal distances' undermines the effort to create a climate of trust, as it does not accurately reflect the reality resulting from the Turkish occupation. The Foreign Ministry respects the role of UNFICYP and looks forward to continued cooperation to ensure smooth living conditions and protect property rights in the buffer zone.