“The ongoing initiative by the UN Secretary-General offers an opportunity for a resolution, always based on the agreed framework of the United Nations and the European acquis,” emphasizes Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in a message marking the somber anniversary of the Turkish invasion. 

At the same time, he notes that the goal is a reunified Cyprus, free of an occupying army and outdated guarantee systems.

“Every time the calendar reads July 20, our thoughts do not merely return to the dark anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. It encounters an open wound on the Big Island and in the heart of all Hellenism: the ongoing crime of illegal occupation, the pain of uprooting, and the tragedy of the missing. “Fifty-two years later, we honor the heroes who defended freedom by refusing to accept the fait accompli imposed by armed force,” Mr. Mitsotakis said.

He added that “Greece stands unwaveringly by the side of the Republic of Cyprus. Faithful to the principles of international law and the decisions of the United Nations for a just, functional, and sustainable resolution of the Cyprus issue. The ongoing initiative of the UN Secretary-General offers an opportunity for a resolution, always based on the agreed-upon UN framework and the European acquis.”

He noted that “the goal is a reunified Cyprus, free of an occupying army and outdated guarantee systems. A modern country that will prosper within the greater European family. This is the future Cyprus deserves. We therefore continue this difficult struggle. We do not forget; we remain vigilant!”

Source: CNA