Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar, who is serving as the Personal Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General in Cyprus, spoke to the press following her meeting with President Ersin Tatar, BRTK reports.
Holguin described the encounter as constructive, highlighting that President Tatar reiterated his stance on the reunification of the island and the attendant issues. Tatar is insisting on two separate and sovereign states.
According to Yeniduzen, during his meeting with Holguin, Tatar rebuffed the proposal for a tripartite meeting involving the south and the UN. Tufan Erhürman, Chairman of the CTP, commented on Tatar’s decision, emphasising that sitting at the negotiation table necessitates accepting equal international status. He clarified that a tripartite meeting, under the UN’s auspices, does not signify the commencement of negotiations but rather a discussion between the two communities. Erhürman asserted that such a meeting does not compromise on equal international status, as it is conducted within the framework of the UN.
During her discussions with Tatar, Holguin emphasised the significance of garnering international support for a lasting resolution in Cyprus. She underscored that the responsibility for progress now rests with the leaders, urging them to take decisive action.
Reflecting on her engagements during her visits to Cyprus over the past months, the Colombian diplomat conveyed the collective desire for advancement among various sectors, including non-governmental organisations, the private sector, and youth representatives. She stressed the imperative for leaders to heed this call for progress, emphasising the need for tangible steps forward.
Accompanying Holguin during her meeting with Tatar was her advisor, Patti Londono.
This visit marks Holguin’s third trip to the island since her appointment by the Secretary-General, aimed at fostering consensus for the resumption of negotiations between the two sides.
Holguin is scheduled to continue her engagements on the island until May 14th.