The year 2024 marked significant anniversaries in Cyprus’s history, alongside notable diplomatic efforts, international developments, and unresolved tensions. The 50th anniversary of the Cyprus Peace Operation, 41st anniversary of the TRNC, 60th anniversary of UNFICYP, and 20th anniversary of the Annan Plan referendum highlighted the island’s historical and geopolitical importance.

Key Developments in the Cyprus Problem

Renewed Efforts for Negotiation

• UN Appoints Personal Representative: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appointed Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar as his Personal Representative to explore common ground for negotiations. However, her report concluded that no common ground exists between the parties.
• Differing Stances: The Turkish Cypriot side reiterated its call for a two-state solution along with demands for "3D"—direct flights, direct trade, and direct contact. Meanwhile, the Greek Cypriot side remained firm on a federal solution.
• Planned Informal Meeting: Following separate meetings with Guterres in New York, both leaders agreed to a broader informal meeting in Switzerland, expected in March 2025.

Calls for Recognition

• Turkish President’s UN Call: At the 79th UN General Assembly, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan called for international recognition of the TRNC.
• Azerbaijan’s Support: Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev supported the TRNC’s bid for full membership in the Organization of Turkic States, marking a diplomatic breakthrough.TRNC at Turkic Summit: TRNC President Ersin Tatar attended the Council of Heads of State of the Organization of Turkic States, strengthening ties with Turkic nations.

Challenges and Tensions

• Military Escalations: The Greek Cypriot Administration intensified military cooperation with Western allies, including efforts to integrate advanced defense systems. These actions drew sharp criticism from the TRNC and Turkey.
• Economic Pressures: Southern Cyprus attempted to restrict tourism and investments in the TRNC, including arresting foreign investors, which further escalated tensions.

Important Anniversaries in 2024

• 50th Anniversary of the Cyprus Peace Operation: Commemorated with ceremonies attended by Turkish President Erdoğan and TRNC officials, reaffirming calls for a two-state solution.
• 20th Anniversary of Annan Plan Referendum: TRNC President Tatar criticized the EU for failing to fulfill promises made to Turkish Cypriots post-referendum.

Broader International Context

• Middle East Tensions: Ongoing conflicts in the region, including Western military presence in Cyprus, added to the island’s strategic significance.
• EU Relations: The EU emphasized the importance of resuming negotiations within the framework of UN-led efforts, linking Cyprus discussions to broader Turkey-EU relations.

Anticipations for 2025

The coming year holds promise for breakthroughs with the planned Switzerland meeting involving both Cypriot leaders and guarantor nations. However, unresolved tensions and differing visions for the future of Cyprus continue to challenge progress.