The existing dichotomous status quo is unacceptable and deteriorating, and Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) are a valuable tool, the joint communiqué issued on Wednesday by the Embassy of Slovakia says, following the meeting of representatives of Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot parties at the Ledra Palace Hotel, in Nicosia.
The parties met on Wednesday under the auspices of the Embassy of Slovakia and discussed the topic “Confidence Building Measures: a tool for the future or a prerequisite for a restart?” proposed by the hosting Cyprus Green Party.
The press release said that the participants exchanged views on the long-term experience of efforts to implement CBMs following UN Security Council Resolution 789 (1992) and reviewed current developments. It also noted that many of the CBMs ”have positively contributed to mutual understanding and resolved daily issues faced by people on both sides of the divide, over the years.”
“The real prerequisite is political will. CBMs cannot be a substitute for substantive negotiations,” it added.
The participants encourage the leaders of the two communities to intensify efforts for the resumption of negotiations towards a democratic, peaceful, and sustainable federal solution to the Cyprus problem within the UN framework and resolutions, the EU acquis, and international law.
“All sides should refrain from statements and actions that erode confidence, especially at the time when there are efforts to resume negotiations,” the press release pointed out.
It also noted that Turkish Cypriot Social Justice and Struggle Party (TAM Parti) opted out of the text of the Joint Communiqué.
The next meeting of the leaders and representatives of the political parties will be hosted by the United Cyprus Party (BKP) on Wednesday, 4 November 2026.