UN Secretary-General makes reference to the Cyprus
problem
The UN Secretary-General, Mr Ban Ki-Moon, gave a press conference
yesterday at UN Headquarters in New York, during which he spoke about the
crucial matters that the international organisation is tackling. After his
introductory statement, the UN Secretary-General replied to press questions,
including a question on Cyprus and the ongoing efforts to reach a settlement.
The full text of the question and answer on the Cyprus problem is as
follows:
Question: Mr Secretary-General, do you expect during your tenure to see the
Cyprus issue solved? If you could give us an update on the negotiations and when
do you expect to get more personally involved?
UN Secretary-General : I’m encouraged that the two leaders are meeting and negotiating on
a detailed manner. Since the formal resumption of the negotiations on May
15 th of this year, we have had meetings with both Greek Cypriots and
Turkish Cypriots, approaching the talks with a positive, constructive, and
problem solving spirit. This has helped to generate fresh and important momentum
as well as a significant progress in the talks. I have been greatly encouraged
by the two leaders’ commitment, recently reaffirmed on Monday, September 14
th this week, to continue to work tirelessly in order to reach a
comprehensive settlement as soon as possible. In this regard I also welcome
their agreement to intensify their work and to increase the frequency of their
meetings. My Special Envoy Mr Eide is staying in the region and he is closely
coordinating with the two leaders. I am also looking forward to meeting the
leaders during the time of the General Assembly and to discuss further and add
my political support.
________
17/9/2015
