GC Political Parties Welcome Special Envoy for Cyprus Talks

The appointment, announced by commission president Ursula von der Leyen, is seen as a step towards strengthening Europe’s role in efforts to resolve one of the bloc’s most enduring conflicts. Hahn, a former European commissioner with long-standing ties to the region, is expected to work closely with the United Nations to help restart stalled negotiations.

The left-wing party Akel said the decision was “welcome,” expressing hope that Hahn’s role would support the UN’s attempts to break the current deadlock and revive talks on a bi-zonal, bi-communal federal solution. In a statement, the party stressed that the success of any initiative still depends on progress within the UN framework. 

Hahn’s mission, as defined by the EU, is to support the peace process in line with UN parameters, in coordination with UN secretary-general António Guterres’ personal envoy, María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar. The centre-right Disy also voiced support, highlighting Hahn’s experience and his knowledge of EU policy. The party said his involvement could play a meaningful role in resolving the Cyprus problem, provided it is based on the agreed framework for a just and lasting solution.

Diko, the democratic party, echoed this view. It called the appointment a “significant step” towards greater EU engagement. It credited the development to President Nikos Christodoulides’ efforts, which the party said it has backed from the outset. In a separate statement, the democratic alignment (Dipa) described the move as a clear sign of Brussels’ political will to take an active role in ending the decades-old division. Dipa pointed to recent EU statements on Turkey and the European Parliament resolution as signs of renewed momentum.

The parties agreed that any progress must align with UN security council resolutions, international law, and EU values. Hahn’s appointment, they argue, must support, not replace, the UN-led process.

Source: Cyprus Mail