The Republic of Cyprus supports the UN Secretary-General’s intensified efforts, is building on the EU’s increased interest, and considers the appointment of the European Commission’s Special Representative for the Cyprus Issue to be important, stated Deputy Minister to the President Irini Piki, noting at the same time that the current diplomatic window of opportunity must be utilized with unity, seriousness, and national self-confidence.

Ms. Piki was speaking at the official memorial service for those who fell during the 1974 Turkish invasion, held in Larnaca, where she represented the Government. In her memorial address, she emphasized that justice for the heroes’ sacrifice can be achieved only through an end to the occupation, the liberation and reunification of Cyprus, reiterating the government’s commitment to continuing efforts to resume talks within the agreed-upon United Nations framework.

The memorial service for those who fell during the Turkish invasion of July 20, 1974, was held at the Metropolitan Church of the Savior in Larnaca, presided over by Metropolitan Nektarios of Kiti. This was followed by the laying of wreaths, a minute of silence, and the playing of the National Anthem.

In her commemorative address, Ms. Piki described the month of July as a time of remembrance and reflection for the Greek Cypriot community, emphasizing that “injustice will never become the norm, occupation will never become the norm, and oblivion will never become our homeland.” She noted that the heroes of 1974 remain alive in the memory and conscience of the people, while praising the sacrifice of those who rushed to defend the freedom and independence of the Republic of Cyprus.

He made special mention of the contribution of Larnaca, which welcomed thousands of displaced persons after the invasion, offering refuge to families from the occupied areas and keeping alive the hope of return.

Focusing on the Cyprus issue, the Deputy Minister emphasized that, 52 years after the tragedy of 1974, justice for the sacrifice of the fallen can be achieved only through an end to the occupation, the liberation, and the reunification of the homeland.

She conveyed the assurance of the President of the Republic that the resolution of the Cyprus problem is the government’s top priority, emphasizing that efforts are being made to create the conditions for the resumption of direct negotiations on the basis of the agreed United Nations framework, the European acquis, and the principles of international law.

At the same time, Ms. Piki noted that a serious initiative to restart the talks is underway, which, she said, “has emerged from the persistent efforts of the Cypriot side and its clear political will, which is recognized by the international community.”

He also noted that the Republic of Cyprus supports the intensified efforts of the United Nations Secretary-General, is building on the European Union’s increased interest, and considers the appointment of the European Commission’s Special Representative for the Cyprus Issue to be important, expressing her conviction that the current diplomatic window of opportunity must be seized with unity, seriousness, and national self-confidence.

In closing, Ms. Piki called for the preservation of historical memory and national unity, emphasizing that “above parties and ideologies, there is only one shared responsibility: Cyprus,” while noting that the heroes of 1974 “do not reside in memorials, but in our decisions, in our unity, and in our refusal to accept injustice as fate.”

Source: CNA