A senior Greek diplomat visited the United Nations this week to speak with the Secretary-General and Security Council about growing world problems. The main goal was “the Security Council of the UN and the meeting with the Secretary-General,” the source said, adding that “we are going through a period in which the international security architecture is being redefined.”

On Cyprus, the source called the moment “critical,” saying “no major development that would create strong momentum has emerged.” However, “Confidence Building Measures are proceeding, as stated at the last expanded meeting in New York.” The source noted that “the election of Ersin Tatar changed the conditions,” but “the conditions are not yet ripe for a new expanded meeting” and “there is no clear timetable for the next steps.” An expanded meeting could happen “in the spring,” the source said, praising “the great effort being made by the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General Maria Angela Holguin.”

The source added that “Cyprus remains a high priority for the UN Secretary-General, which creates satisfaction,” stressing that “a non-negotiable condition is discussion within the framework of the UN Resolutions.”

On Libya, contacts continue between “the Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General Hanna Tetteh together with the senior White House adviser for Africa Michael Bouros, with the final goal of holding elections.” Greece has been talking to both sides for the past seven months. The source said “Libya must be at the center of the UN,” warning that “external influences are harmful” and that Greece “clearly supports a political solution.” The UN Secretary-General was told of “the Libyans’ request for a new effort regarding the country’s resources, a reasonable request, as these are Libya’s resources.”

On Greek-Turkish ties, the High-Level Cooperation Council is expected “by mid-February in Ankara.” The source said “we must keep channels open, especially at this time of fluidity on the international political stage.” The source added, “we do not have crises, we have tensions,” and “there are no grounds for discussion on continental shelf and EEZ.” Still, Greece looks forward to “constructive discussion” to “keep calm in these difficult times.”

A recent Turkish NAVTEX was called “completely unfounded,” with the source saying Turkey misuses a tool meant only to protect shipping under international law.

On Gaza, the source said Greece “stood by the European position and, as a member of the Security Council, we must uphold international law produced at the UN,” adding that “no deviation from our values will occur” and that compliance with the relevant resolution is required.

On Syria, the source voiced “concern about developments,” saying “full respect for the ceasefire agreement is absolutely necessary, as is accountability.” The UN “must systematically monitor the commitment of the interim government to tolerance and inclusiveness towards religious and ethnic minorities,” an issue Greece “is watching very closely, in conjunction with the Patriarchate.”