We have learned that the intensive negotiations held under the auspices of the UN between the Turkish Cypriot side and the Greek Cypriot side in Mont Pèlerin, Switzerland, from 7 to 11 November 2016, for a just, lasting and comprehensive settlement on the Island have been paused upon the request of the Greek Cypriot side and that the round of intensive negotiations will resume in Geneva on 20 November 2016.

Our expectation at this stage is that the two sides continue the negotiations with a results-oriented and constructive approach, set a date for the five-party conference which is the final phase of the process, and that a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus issue is reached before the end of 2016.

We will continue to resolutely support the current intensive phase of the negotiations.