EU appoints Rafael Fito as Cyprus special envoy to restart talks

The European Commission has appointed Rafael Fito as its Special Representative for Cyprus. In a press briefing, Commission spokesperson Louise Bois said Fito will contact all parties involved in the island’s division to prepare the ground for a new round of negotiations and to support a comprehensive, sustainable solution.

Bois emphasized that the EU remains firmly committed to the reunification of Cyprus in line with United Nations Security Council resolutions and EU values. Fito will work closely with the UN’s Personal Envoy for Cyprus, Maria Aggela Olgín Kuegiyar, and will draw on his experience in regional cooperation and institutional dialogue. The commission also noted the appointment follows extensive contacts with relevant interlocutors and highlights Fito’s proximity to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Diplomatic sources indicated a possible meeting between Fito and the UN envoy could take place in July, underscoring the EU’s intent to accelerate the mediation process.