Holguin Aims for New Crossing Agreement Ahead of Five-Party Meeting

According to Fileleftheros newspaper, Holguin visited the “Athienu” (Kiracıköy) – “Piroi” (Gaziler) area yesterday to conduct an on-site inspection regarding the possibility of opening a new crossing point towards Nicosia.

The newspaper reports that Holguin will also hold talks with negotiators today, striving to advance progress on opening new crossing points, demining efforts, and solar park projects.

Fileleftheros notes Holguin deemed the Kiracıköy visit necessary, as it allowed her to make firsthand observations supporting the opening of a crossing point towards Nicosia.

Kiracıköy Mayor Kiriakos Kareklas informed Holguin about the area and potential crossing possibilities, stating that if a crossing is opened there, it would enable a 10-minute connection to the university district in Nicosia.

Kareklas highlighted that residents currently face a long commute to Nicosia and that students must pay high rents to attend schools there, with additional vehicle wear and tear.

The newspaper claims the Greek Cypriot side has long requested the opening of the Gaziler crossing, but the Turkish side rejected it due to strong military objections.

While there is no clear indication of immediate progress on opening new crossing points or related issues, some developments may occur before the upcoming five-party meeting.

The UN is reportedly hoping for positive developments to move the process forward, with Holguin aiming to assist the parties step-by-step in building trust through her ongoing contacts.

Greek Cypriot Deputy Government Spokesman Praises Holguin’s Remarks

Fileleftheros also quoted Greek Cypriot Deputy Government Spokesman Yannis Andoniou, who expressed satisfaction with Secretary-General Guterres and the international community respecting the agreed framework on the Cyprus issue.

Regarding Holguin’s interview with Politis, in which she stated that the two-community, two-region federation is no longer a common reference point, Andoniou commented that Holguin did not say anything new but merely made an observation.

He claimed the Turkish side acts according to its own negotiation framework, while the Greek Cypriot side will use all means at its disposal to dismantle what he called the “occupation wall.”

Consultations Continue on Opening Pile-Yiğitler Road

Separately, Politis newspaper reported that Holguin’s efforts on crossing points might pave the way for finalizing an agreement to open the Pile-Yiğitler road.

The Greek Cypriot administration is said to be in ongoing talks with UN Secretary-General’s Cyprus Special Representative Colin Stewart on this matter, with the overall proposal reportedly satisfying both sides.

The only remaining issue is the Greek Cypriot side’s position regarding the opening of the “Kokkina” (Erenköy) barricade.