Cyprus’ ethnic split must be resolved to stabilize a tumultuous region, UN chief says
Summary
U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres visited Cyprus to push for renewed peace talks aimed at resolving the island's long-standing ethnic division. He said ending this split is very important for keeping peace in Cyprus and also for stability in the wider, unstable region.Key Facts
- Cyprus has been divided for 52 years, with Turkish Cypriots in the north and Greek Cypriots in the south, separated by a U.N.-controlled buffer zone.
- The split began after Turkey invaded in 1974 following a coup attempt aiming to unite Cyprus with Greece.
- Turkish Cypriots declared independence nearly 10 years later, recognized only by Turkey which still has over 35,000 troops in northern Cyprus.
- Cyprus joined the European Union in 2004, but only the government-controlled south fully benefits from EU membership.
- Cyprus is located close to the Middle East, about 207 km from Lebanon and 340 km from Israel.
- The island has built stronger ties with countries like Israel for energy and defense cooperation.
- A drone attack in March involved a Shaheed drone said to be launched from Lebanon, highlighting regional tensions.
- Guterres emphasized that resolving Cyprus’ division is key not just for the island’s peace but also for regional stability.
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