Menelau: Turkish Cypriot Side Acts Outside of UN Framework

According to a report in the Greek Cypriot press, following the recent meeting between President Ersin Tatar and President Nikos Christodoulides in Geneva, they appeared open to making progress on easier issues. However, difficult topics were set aside and are expected to be addressed once Maria Angela Holguin formally takes over as the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Cyprus.

Fileleftheros newspaper reported that while there is a disagreement between the two sides regarding Holguin’s mandate, her contribution will be necessary to move forward, even under Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs).

Menelau also commented on the issue of Holguin’s appointment, stating that the process was nearing completion. According to “sources” from the Cyprus Radio Television Corporation (RIK), Menelau argued that the Turkish Cypriot side was operating outside the framework of UN decisions regarding the responsibilities of the Special Representative for Cyprus.

Regarding the discussions between Tatar and Christodoulides, Menelau highlighted difficulties over the establishment of new crossing points and solar park projects. The main issue with the solar park, according to Menelau, was the Turkish Cypriot side’s insistence on sending the energy produced directly to the Turkish Cypriot electricity grid.

Menelau also mentioned that the Turkish Cypriot side had not shown interest in the Greek Cypriot proposals to open crossings at Athineu (Kiracıköy)-Piroi (Gaziler) and Kokkina (Erenköy).