It was aimed at determining whether negotiations could soon restart on a Cyprus problem solution. The conference failed as no common ground was reached. It was doomed to fail thanks to unbridgeable positions and a move away from convergences on a federation. The Turkish side rejects a federation all together; the Greek side insists on undermining political equality.
In the absence of a comprehensive solution, the areas that trigger tension could be compartmentalised and tackled individually.
The status quo on the island could become increasingly unsustainable as Turkey enhances its grip on the Turkish Cypriot community.
If no common ground is reached, the mandate of the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus may have to change.
Turkey might resume hydrocarbons explorations in the waters off Cyprus, leading to a flare-up in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Security risks due to a fragile situation may prevent gas companies fulfilling their contractual obligations with the Republic of Cyprus.
