The reunification of Cyprus is the only solution before us, and we will pursue it on the basis of United Nations resolutions and the European acquis, for a fair and sustainable solution to the Cyprus problem, said on Monday the Deputy Prime Minister of the Greek Government, Kostis Hatzidakis, expressing Athens’ support for the new initiative of the UN Secretary-General and emphasizing that “Greece has been, is, and will always stand by Cyprus, together with the Greek Cypriot community.”
Speaking at the Macedonitissa Memorial, where he attended a memorial service for the officers and soldiers who fell during the Turkish invasion of July 20, 1974, Mr. Hatzidakis stated that “today we honor with respect and gratitude all those who fell while repelling the Turkish invasion in 1974. We also honor all those who fought in that battle, which was a battle for freedom and justice. The wounds are still open.”
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“The reunification of the island is the only solution before us, and we will pursue it on the basis of UN resolutions and the European acquis for a just and sustainable solution to the Cyprus problem. “Let there be no doubt: Greece has been, is, and will always stand by Cyprus, together with the Greek Cypriot community, in this struggle—a struggle that unites all Greeks throughout the world,” he said.
When asked about the upcoming visit of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, to Cyprus, Mr. Hatzidakis said that the Greek government is actively seeking a fair and sustainable solution to the Cyprus issue.
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“In this regard, we welcome the new initiative by UN Secretary-General Guterres to restart the talks. However, it does not depend solely on the Greek Cypriots, nor solely on Greece. It also depends on the other side. “Our side has demonstrated its willingness to find a solution to the Cyprus problem, which—I repeat—can only be within the framework of UN resolutions and the European acquis,” he said.
When asked about holding a five-party meeting on the Cyprus issue, Mr. Hatzidakis replied: “Let’s leave it at that.”
Source: CNA
