Security Council lauds launch of negotiations in reunifying Cyprus

The Security Council today warmly welcomed the launch of full-fledged negotiations between the leaders of the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities, aimed at the reunification of the island.

In a presidential statement the 15-member body praised the Greek Cypriot leader Demetris Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat for advancing discussions since their first meeting on 21 March.

“The Security Council calls on both sides to continue to work together in a constructive and positive manner in order to reach a comprehensive and durable settlement,” said Ambassador Michel Kafando of Burkina Faso, which holds the rotating Council presidency this month.

“The Security Council looks forward to progress in the negotiations and reiterates its readiness to support the process,” he added.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s recent appointment of Alexander Downer as his Special Adviser on Cyprus was also warmly received by the Security Council.

Today’s presidential statement echoes Mr. Ban’s message yesterday to the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders in which he commended them “for their seriousness of purpose, sense of compromise and commitment to seeing the peace process through to a successful conclusion.”