Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades has replied positively to a question on whether he is “cautiously optimistic” after the positions put forward by the other side in today`s meeting with Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akintzi.
Upon his arrival to the Presidential Palace President Anastasiades was asked whether the criteria on property and matters of governance were discussed during today`s meeting with Akintzi. The UN statement speaks for itself, he said.
Asked whether the positions put forward by the other side allow our side to be cautiously optimistic he replied “I think yes”.
Anastasiades and Akintzi had their first meeting earlier today after the summer break.
In a statement after the meeting UN Secretary General`s Special Adviser on Cyprus Espen Barth Eide said “the positive and constructive dialogue between the two leaders continues to create forward momentum.”
According to Eide the two leaders focused on the current state of play, and in particular on property and governance-related matters. “The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to maintain and build upon these efforts between now and their next meeting on 14 September,” he said.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. UN-led talks, aiming to reunite the island under a federal roof, resumed on May 15, this year.
