Dialogos

AKEL General Secretary: Cyprus Issue, Accuracy, and International Law Define New Year's Challenges

Published January 8, 2026, 13:03
AKEL General Secretary: Cyprus Issue, Accuracy, and International Law Define New Year's Challenges

The General Secretary of AKEL, Stefanos Stefanou, expressed cautious optimism regarding the resumption of negotiations on the Cyprus issue, linking it to the similar optimism expressed by the UN Secretary-General in his report on UNFICYP. He emphasized the need for initiatives and clear positions, aiming to restart talks from where they left off in Crans Montana in 2017 and achieve a solution that will end the Turkish occupation and reunite the island. Mr. Stefanou highlighted the importance of safeguarding convergences and utilizing the UN framework. Furthermore, the General Secretary of AKEL referred to the challenges facing Cyprus, Europe, and the world, stressing the need for responsibility, specific proposals for the benefit of society, and patriotism in approaching developments. He believes that these characteristics are timeless elements of AKEL's policy, which is at the forefront of defending workers and society. Noting that AKEL will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026, Mr. Stefanou expressed his pride in the party's history, rich in sacrifices and contributions. He stated that this history is an inheritance that AKEL wants to enrich with its struggles for Cyprus and its workers. Regarding the upcoming parliamentary elections, Mr. Stefanou expressed optimism for achieving a stronger AKEL, emphasizing that hard work and collective effort are essential to realizing this goal. A strong AKEL, according to Mr. Stefanou, represents hope for the country and its people.