“The two leaders have reached a critical juncture in their talks. I encourage them to make the most of the moment and the momentum,” Ban told the press in Mont Pèlerin, where the negotiations are being held.

“I call on all interested parties – especially the guarantor powers Greece, Turkey and the United Kingdom – as well as the wider international community, to support the leaders in their efforts to finally overcome the division of their island,” he added.

Hailing the significant progress made in the leader-led process over the past 18 months, Ban highlighted the hope expressed by the two leaders that this meeting will pave the way for the last phase of the talks in line with their shared commitment to do their utmost in order to reach a settlement within 2016.

“At the same time, a number of sensitive and difficult issues still remain. I know the two leaders are here with a strong commitment and determination to work towards solving all these issues,” noted the Secretary-General.

Ban further said that Cyprus offered “tremendous” hope to people around the world that long-standing conflicts can be resolved peacefully through negotiations, and assured the two leaders – Turkish Cypriot leader, Mustafa Akinci, and Greek Cypriot leader, Nicos Anastasiades – of UN’s commitment to assist them “in whatever way” to reach their shared goal, while respecting that the future of Cyprus will be determined by Cypriots, for all Cypriots.

“I commend the leaders for their vision, courage and leadership for advancing their talks further than ever before. The prospect of a solution in Cyprus is within their reach,” said the UN chief, adding: “Expectations in both communities are high.”

The talks, hosted by the Swiss Government, are being conducted under the auspices of the UN Special Adviser on Cyprus, Espen Barth Eide.