The European Union has expressed its support for the recent appointment of María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar, the former Foreign Minister of Colombia, as the new Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General on Cyprus. This move is seen as a pivotal step in revitalizing the stalled peace negotiations in the region and is a testament to the EU’s unwavering commitment to finding a lasting solution to the Cyprus issue.
A New Chapter in Cypriot Peace Talks
The appointment of María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar comes at a crucial time when the last formal negotiations in Crans Montana in 2017 have yet to yield a sustainable resolution1. The EU’s top representatives, High Representative Josep Borrell, and Commissioner Elisa Ferreira, have welcomed this development, recognizing the importance of this role in the broader context of European security and cooperation2.
The EU has reiterated its readiness to actively support the UN-facilitated process with all the tools at its disposal. The bloc’s dedication to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus issue is grounded in the UN framework, adherence to relevant UN Security Council resolutions, and the foundational principles of the EU itself, including the acquis. This integrated approach underscores the EU’s holistic commitment to regional stability and the rule of law.
Cyprus’s strategic location in the Eastern Mediterranean makes it a key area for security and stability. The EU recognizes that fostering cooperation in this region is more important than ever, given the current geopolitical climate. The appointment of a new UN Personal Envoy is not only a step towards peace in Cyprus but also an opportunity to enhance cooperation and pursue joint approaches that benefit the broader region.
María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar’s Diplomatic Expertise
María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar brings a wealth of diplomatic experience to the table, having served as Colombia’s Foreign Minister. Her expertise in international relations and conflict resolution will be invaluable assets in her new role as the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Cyprus. Her appointment is a clear signal of the international community’s renewed focus on the Cyprus issue and its potential resolution.
The road to peace in Cyprus is fraught with challenges, but the EU’s support for María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar’s appointment is a positive sign of progress. As the new envoy embarks on her mission, the EU, along with the UN, will be closely monitoring and supporting the process, hoping to bridge divides and establish a lasting peace that respects the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Cyprus.
Conclusion
The appointment of María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar as the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Cyprus is a significant development in the quest for peace in the region. The EU’s endorsement of this decision reflects its commitment to supporting Cyprus and ensuring stability in the Eastern Mediterranean. With renewed diplomatic efforts and international support, there is hope for a peaceful future for Cyprus.
The European Union’s response to the appointment of María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar as the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Cyprus is a clear indication of its commitment to resolving the long-standing conflict on the island. The EU’s support for the UN’s efforts and its readiness to provide assistance throughout the peace process are important steps towards achieving stability and cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean. With Holguín Cuéllar’s extensive diplomatic experience and the EU’s active involvement, there is renewed optimism for a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus issue that aligns with both UN resolutions and EU principles.
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First published in this link of The European Times.
