Don’t talk through the media, says UN

Hurriyet Daily News with wires

Although Ban said he was encouraged with the negotiating process so far, it was of vital importance the parties did not neglect the political aspects of the process.

Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders yesterday held their 11th meeting in the buffer zone in Nicosia under full-fledged talks aimed at finding a permanent solution to the Cyprus issue. Despite ten face-to-face meetings, the two sides have made little tangible progress.

The Secretary-General said overall the negotiations were moving ahead well, "with both parties presenting their respective positions and engaging with each other in a constructive and open manner." He added, however, that the issues to be addressed were difficult and differences along the way would naturally appear. During their meeting last week tensions rose when Turkish Cypriot President Mehmet Ali Talat read a statement on the Turkish side’s concern over his Greek Cypriot counterpart, Demetris Christofias’ visit to Russia and the declaration he signed there.

"The nature of the process demands a diligent and patient approach. I am confident that both leaders will remain engaged through regular meetings and committed to see the process through to a comprehensive settlement," Ban Ki Moon said. The secretary-general also mentioned the "excellent personal chemistry" between the two leaders. "Their sensitivity to each other’s needs and political constraints are unique assets to help them move forward together with determination and confidence," he said.