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Guterres Says US-Iran Talks Likely, Urges Respect For International Law

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addressed global tensions at UN Headquarters in New York, stating that renewed dialogue between the United States and Iran remains both possible and necessary. His remarks come at a time when geopolitical instability continues to test the resilience of international frameworks. He emphasized that respect for international law must remain central, particularly as conflicts increasingly challenge established norms and legal standards.

Renewed US-Iran Dialogue On The Horizon

Guterres noted that the likelihood of renewed negotiations between Washington and Tehran is growing, but cautioned that progress will depend on sustained and structured engagement rather than quick diplomatic wins. Resolving long-standing disputes, he explained, requires persistence and a willingness to engage beyond single rounds of talks, especially in a context shaped by big political and strategic differences.

Erosion Of International Law And Its Global Impact

Rising disregard for international law remains a key concern. Guterres pointed to a pattern in which rules governing armed conflict are being weakened or ignored, increasing risks for both civilians and broader regional stability. Such developments, he warned, contribute to a more unpredictable global environment, where violations of legal norms can escalate tensions and complicate conflict resolution efforts.

Institutions As Pillars Of Legal Order

Looking ahead, Guterres announced his visit to The Hague to mark the 80th anniversary of the International Court of Justice. He described the ICJ as a central institution in upholding international legal standards and reinforcing accountability. Its role, he noted, remains essential in maintaining a rules-based international system, particularly at a time when global governance structures are under pressure.

Sustaining A Ceasefire And The Middle East Stability

Addressing ongoing tensions in the Middle East, Guterres stressed that ceasefires remain a necessary foundation for any meaningful political process. Without sustained pauses in hostilities, diplomatic progress becomes significantly more difficult. He also highlighted the importance of safeguarding international navigational rights, particularly in strategic corridors such as the Strait of Hormuz, where disruptions could have global economic implications.

The Imperative For Persistent Negotiations

Guterres concluded by reiterating that durable solutions cannot be achieved through isolated diplomatic efforts. Long-term stability depends on continuous negotiations supported by international cooperation. While progress may be gradual, he emphasized that sustained dialogue remains the most viable path toward reducing tensions and achieving lasting peace.

Eurobank Wins Two Euromoney Awards Following Cyprus Merger

Eurobank has been named Cyprus’ Best Bank for 2026 by Euromoney, while also receiving the award for Best Bank for Large Corporates at the publication’s latest Awards for Excellence.

Merger Marks A Milestone

The awards recognise the bank’s performance during 2025, a year marked by the completion of the legal merger between Hellenic Bank and Eurobank Cyprus. The transaction created Eurobank Limited, which the group says is now Cyprus’ largest banking and insurance organisation, with assets exceeding €28 billion.

Euromoney’s Awards for Excellence evaluate banks’ performance over the previous calendar year, with this edition covering January 1 to December 31, 2025.

Lending, Customers And Digital Growth

Eurobank said its business lending portfolio expanded by around 17 per cent during 2025, while its customer base grew to more than 710,000 retail clients and 11,500 business customers.

The bank also continued its digital expansion, saying more than 96 per cent of transactions are now completed through digital channels, and most financing applications are submitted via its mobile app.

Expanding International Presence

Eurobank also highlighted the opening of its first representative office in India, describing the move as a step toward strengthening business links between Cyprus and India while supporting Cyprus’ role as a gateway to the European Union for Indian businesses and investors.

According to the bank, Euromoney recognised not only the successful completion of the merger but also its lending growth, digital transformation and contribution to Cyprus’ position as an international business and investment hub.

CEO On The Awards

“The Euromoney awards confirm Eurobank’s strong momentum and the successful implementation of our group’s strategy in Cyprus,” Chief Executive Michalis Louis said.

He said the merger strengthened the bank’s ability to support households, businesses and the wider economy, while highlighting continued investment in digital services and the opening of the representative office in India as key milestones during the year.

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