A strong response was issued to Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman and officials of the pseudo-state who attempted to elevate the case of the beating of a 47-year-old Turkish Cypriot in Ayia Napa by young tourists into a major political issue.

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Following today’s Cabinet meeting, when asked to comment on statements made by the Turkish Cypriot leader regarding the beating of a Turkish Cypriot in the free areas, the Spokesperson said that “the only comment we have to make is that under no circumstances—and this has now become clear from the arrests of those considered suspects— were there any nationalist or other motives behind this attack, which we have condemned and continue to condemn.”

“Any form of violence is reprehensible. The peaceful coexistence of Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots has been proven in practice, and no one should, through their statements or insinuations, undermine this peaceful coexistence between Greek Cypriotsand Turkish Cypriot compatriots.”

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Mr. Letympiotis noted that “we have said many times that the Cyprus issue is one of invasion and occupation, and we have stated that in light of this effort by the United Nations Secretary-General—especially at this time— our public statements should all be guided by how we can contribute to the atmosphere that the United Nations Secretary-General himself is trying to create.”