Downer to step down as UN special adviser on Cyprus, reports say
Australian diplomat Alexander Downer is to step down as UN special adviser on Cyprus, local media report.
Downer, who has held the post since 2008, will be appointed as head of Australia’s diplomatic delegation in a key capital, Cyprus’s Politis newspaper reports without providing more information.
Meanwhile, Downer’s meeting with Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot representatives on Wednesday did not produce a breakthrough as the two sides failed to agree on a joint declaration as efforts continue to resume reunification talks.
Wednesday’s meeting was seen as the last opportunity before Downer briefs the UN Security Council next week.
