UNFICYP mandate for another six months

The Security Council of the United Nations has renewed the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) mandate for six months, until July 31, 2022.

The resolution was adopted unanimously on Thursday by the Security Council during a meeting chaired by Norway`s permanent representative, ambassador Mona Juul.

Unanimously adopting resolution 2618, the council called on the Cypriot leaders and all involved parties to refrain from any actions and rhetoric that might damage the settlement process and that could raise tensions on the island.

It also expressed concern over tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean, and underlined that disputes should be resolved peacefully, in accordance with applicable international law. Before the Security Council`s meeting, Cyprus’ permanent representative to the UN, ambassador Andreas Hadjichrysanthou handed to the Security Council President a letter of acceptance by the government of Cyprus as host country of UNFICYP`s mandate renewal.

The council also expressed serious concern at the reported encroachment by both sides into the UN-patrolled buffer zone and the increase in unauthorized construction.

Both sides were urged to reduce existing barriers to intercommunal contact and welcomed the continuation of the regular dialogue between them and the UN.

It “deeply regrated” the lack of progress on an effective mechanism for direct military contacts between the sides and the relevant involved parties. It urged flexibility and engagement by the sides, facilitated by UNFICYP, to develop an acceptable proposal on the establishment of such a tool, and its timely implementation.