Holguin: It Is Too Early To Set A Date For An Informal 5+1 Conference

In an interview with Fileleftheros newspaper, published under the headline “Too Early For A New Informal 5+1 – Agreement Between The Leaders Is No Small Achievement”, Holguín assessed the current phase of the process and the prospects ahead.

Asked whether the recent leaders’ meeting constituted a good starting point, Holguín said she believed it did. She described Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman and Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides as sincere and straightforward, adding that this, in her view, marked a very positive beginning.

Holguín underlined that during the meeting held on 11 December, the two leaders discussed core political issues for the first time in five years. She noted that, in their joint statement following the meeting, the leaders agreed on pursuing a solution to the Cyprus issue based on political equality, as outlined in UN resolutions. She stressed that such a commitment had not been publicly expressed by the leaders since 2020, describing this as “no small achievement”.

She said both leaders demonstrated strong command of the issues and were able to quickly identify the challenges that would need to be addressed before the launch of substantive negotiations. Holguín added that she was encouraged to see both leaders engage in discussions at such a detailed level.

Looking ahead, Holguín emphasised the importance of the role to be played by the leaders’ representatives, noting that their work would be crucial in preparing the ground for results-oriented negotiations at leadership level. She said she hoped negotiators would adopt a more systematic and outcome-focused approach, allowing future meetings between the leaders to concentrate more fully on substance.

Holguín also stressed that both leaders have responsibilities towards their respective communities, and said she hoped to see determination, flexibility and leadership in the period ahead. While the UN can facilitate the process, she said, it is ultimately the leaders who must reach an agreement.

Responding to questions about whether substantive negotiations and Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs) could proceed in parallel, Holguín said she viewed discussions on substance and CBMs as interconnected and mutually reinforcing. She explained that agreements on CBMs, and their implementation, are necessary to create an appropriate environment for leaders to focus on core issues. At the same time, she cautioned that CBMs cannot continue indefinitely if substantive issues are not being addressed by the leaders.

“If approached correctly, the two tracks can strengthen one another,” Holguín said, adding that what matters is a shared understanding that every step taken should contribute to building trust and keep the path towards a comprehensive settlement open.

“Too Early For 5+1”

Asked directly about the possibility of convening an international conference in a 5+1 format, Holguín replied that it was still too early. She described the 11 December meeting as an important step forward and encouraging, but noted that dialogue between the leaders remains at an early stage.

She said the leaders had already reached agreement on certain CBMs and expressed hope that further agreements could be achieved in the weeks and months ahead. However, she stressed that more needs to be done to strengthen the initial momentum and to create a genuine climate of trust that would allow the Secretary-General to consider calling an informal 5+1 conference.

Some CBMs, she noted, are still under discussion. Holguín said she hoped both sides would soon be in a position to move to the next phase.

She also underlined that dialogue between the leaders must be carefully prepared, and that progress would require political will. “There are many people on the island who hope that the leaders will once again make history,” she said, adding that after so many failed efforts, it is essential to be confident that this process can succeed.

“This is what truly matters for the UN and for Cypriots,” Holguín said. “Cyprus and the region cannot afford another series of failed negotiations.”

While a 5+1 conference remains a possible future step, Holguín reiterated that it is premature to set a date at this point. Any such meeting, she said, must be well prepared and offer realistic prospects for advancing the process.

Holguín reaffirmed that the UN Secretary-General remains deeply committed to supporting the parties in their efforts to reach a mutually acceptable solution. She added that while both she and the Secretary-General will continue to make every possible effort, progress towards lasting peace ultimately depends on Cypriots themselves and their leaders.

Asked about her contacts with civil society organisations, Holguín said civil society is a key partner in any peace process. She noted that these meetings revealed a strong desire, particularly among younger generations, for a safer, more stable future with greater opportunities. She added that such views serve as an important reminder that the process is not only about political leaders, but also about people and tangible improvements in their daily lives.

Other newspapers also reported on Holguín’s interviews with ANKA News Agency and Yeni Düzen, using the following headlines:

Alithia: “Political Equality Is No Small Achievement – Holguín: There Is Now An Opportunity For A Cyprus Solution”.

Politis: “Contacts Substantive, Too Early For Results”.

Haravgi: “Holguín Says New Trilateral Meeting Likely Towards The End Of January”.