Nicosia: The Cypriot government remains firmly committed to the reunification of the island and to efforts aimed at resolving the Cyprus issue, ministers said on Sunday during separate memorial services commemorating those who lost their lives in Cyprus' national struggles.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Minister of Labour and Social Insurance Marinos Moushouttas, speaking at the religious and national memorial service for the fallen of Akanthou, emphasized the importance of preserving historical memory and honoring those who sacrificed for the country's freedom. He noted that the community of Akanthou symbolizes sacrifice and resistance, having suffered heavily during both World Wars and the 1974 Turkish invasion. Moushouttas highlighted the lasting impact of the events of 1974, which continue to affect Cypriot society with many still displaced, deceased, missing, or imprisoned.
Conveying a message from President Nikos Christodoulides, Moushouttas reiterated that resolving the Cyprus issue remains the government's top priority. He mentioned ongoing efforts to create conditions conducive to resuming direct negotiations under the United Nations framework, in alignment with UN Security Council resolutions, the EU acquis, and European Union values.
"Our goal remains the transformation of the Republic of Cyprus into a modern European state that guarantees security and prosperity for all its lawful residents. We want a Cyprus without guarantees, intervention rights, occupation troops or barbed wire," Moushouttas stated, while also pledging continued support for displaced persons, families of the fallen and missing, and other vulnerable citizens.
In a separate service in Paphos commemorating Rear Admiral Eleftherios Chandrinos and commandos who died in the 1974 invasion, Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry Michalis Damianos identified Turkey's intransigence as the key barrier to progress on the Cyprus issue. He reaffirmed Cyprus' dedication to a reunification grounded in international law, relevant UN Security Council resolutions, and European Union principles.
Despite existing challenges, Damianos stressed the government's pursuit of diplomatic channels to restart negotiations and welcomed increased European Union involvement, including the appointment of an EU Special Representative. He acknowledged UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres' efforts to facilitate meaningful talks, underscored by Guterres' recent visit to Cyprus.
Marking the anniversary of the Turkish invasion, Damianos pointed out the unresolved consequences of 1974, with ongoing occupation, displaced individuals unable to return home, and families of missing persons still seeking answers. He honored the fallen commandos, emphasizing their bravery and sacrifice as a legacy for future generations and a testament to the enduring struggle for freedom, democracy, and national dignity.
Cyprus has remained divided since Turkey's 1974 invasion and subsequent occupation of the northern third. While repeated UN-led reunification efforts have not yielded a settlement, the UN Chief plans to host a meeting with Greek Cypriot leader President Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhman at the Good Offices Mission inside the UN Protected Area, following separate meetings and a joint private dinner.