President Nikos Christodoulides said on Monday that he hopes for positive developments from his meeting with Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman.

Speaking ahead of the meeting in Nicosia, Christodoulides rejected suggestions that the encounter would be routine or without substance, insisting it should not be underestimated.

“It is not a formal meeting,” he said, adding that he “completely disagrees” with reports portraying it as low-expectation or symbolic.

The meeting, due to take place in the afternoon at UN special representative Khassim Diagne’s residence comes after both leaders’ recent meetings with UN secretary general Antonio Guterres.

Christodoulides indicated that the discussions would build on those exchanges and address the core aspects of the problem.

“I am going to this very important meeting, it is neither ceremonial nor formal nor just to take photos,” he said, emphasising that the aim is to explore whether there is scope for progress.

“I really hope there will be something positive.”

Christodoulides made clear that while he is approaching the meeting with a constructive stance, the result will not be determined unilaterally.

“It depends both on Erhurman and on Turkey’s mood,” he said.

The meeting is expected to begin at around 4.30pm.