UNFICYP

Nicosia, 31 August 2010 -- The UN-backed Cyprus peace talks resumed today at the UN Protected Area following a brief summer recess with the leaders of the two communities agreeing to a series of additional meetings, beginning this Friday, 3 September, and including two “intensive” meetings to be held on 7 and 10 September at the UNFICYP Chief of Mission’s residence.

Speaking to journalists following today’s meeting between Greek Cypriot leader Demetris Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Dervis Eroglu, the Secretary-General’s Special Adviser for Cyprus, Alexander Downer confirmed that two sides would continue with their discussions on property at the forthcoming meetings. Responding to a question in connection with the upcoming two-year mark since the current round of talks began on 3 September 2008, Mr Downer noted the progress achieved in the talks thus far on the issues of governance and power sharing, the economy and on European Union Matters. Noting that the leaders “have been working very hard” on the property issue as well, he added: “From our point of view at the United Nations we are pleased that the leaders are very committed to achieving a successful outcome and they are working at it”.

Mr Downer also announced that he and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General in Cyprus,Lisa M. Buttenheim, would be joining the two leaders at Mr Christofias’ residence this evening for dinner.