United Nations chief Antonio Guterres (Photo: VNA)

Guterres was to join the talks in the Swiss Alpine resort of Crans-Montana with Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders. He would ask them to take big and bold decisions at the summit, which has been billed as the best chance for lasting peace on the island. The secretary-general is expected to play a catalytic role in encouraging the sides to finally resolve one of Europe’s last frozen conflicts.

Cyprus, an EU member, has been divided since 1974 after Turkish troops invaded the island following an Athens-inspired coup attempt seeking a union with Greece. The northern third later declared itself a separate territory, a move that has been recognized only by Ankara.