Nicosia: Cyprus is seeking a solution to the Cyprus issue based on the agreed United Nations framework, the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, and the principles and values of the European Union, Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas announced during his address at the annual National Memorial Service for Fallen Armoured Corps Personnel, held in Kornos.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the annual memorial service was organised by the Pancyprian Association of Armoured Corps Reservists, in cooperation with the Ministry of Defence and the National Guard, at the Stavros Stylianides military camp in Kornos. A torch relay took place as part of the ceremony, with the flame arriving from the Tomb of Makedonitissa, carried by members of the Armoured Corps Reservists Association and the Pericles Demetriou Cyprus Runners Club.
In his speech, the Defence Minister expressed respect and gratitude while highlighting the ongoing efforts to ascertain the fate of missing individuals whose whereabouts have remained unknown for fifty-two years. Palmas reaffirmed Cyprus' condemnation of the 1974 Turkish invasion, emphasizing the ongoing violation of international law principles and the Cypriot people's right to freedom and security.
Palmas noted that the President of the Republic had prioritized ending the deadlock and restarting negotiations to achieve a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus issue. He emphasized that any solution must align with the UN framework, Security Council resolutions, and EU values.
The Minister pointed out that the prolonged stagnation complicates the situation and criticized any Turkish demands for solutions outside the agreed framework. He highlighted Cyprus' efforts to engage the UN Secretary-General and the European Union more actively in the negotiation process.
Palmas shared that a serious initiative to resume negotiations is underway, fueled by Cyprus' persistent efforts, the UN Secretary-General's political will, and the EU's renewed interest. He expressed confidence in tangible results emerging from these efforts and welcomed the UN Secretary-General's upcoming visit to Cyprus.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite repeated UN-led peace talks, Turkish intransigence has hindered progress. Recent informal meetings and a planned broader meeting aim to facilitate a new round of negotiations as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' term nears its end. Mara Angela Holgun and Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto are actively involved in engaging with parties to support the process.