Cyprus Leaders Make Progress in Geneva Talks After Eight-Year Stalemate
Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders agree on confidence-building measures and commit to further discussions in July 2025.
- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres hosted informal talks in Geneva, marking the first significant progress in Cyprus peace negotiations since 2017.
- Both sides agreed on six confidence-building measures, including opening four crossing points, demining, and launching solar energy projects in the UN buffer zone.
- The talks were described as constructive, with a commitment to appoint a new UN envoy and reconvene for further discussions in July 2025.
- Greek Cypriots continue to advocate for a federal reunification model, while Turkish Cypriots push for a two-state solution, highlighting ongoing fundamental disagreements.
- The Cyprus conflict remains a source of tension between NATO allies Greece and Turkey, with Turkey maintaining over 35,000 troops in the island's north.