Nicosia: Cyprus continues to endure the consequences of the Greek junta’s actions, with nearly 40% of its territory remaining under Turkish military occupation, according to the President of the Hellenic Republic, Konstantinos Tasoulas. He made these remarks during a statement commemorating the 58th anniversary of the colonels’ coup on April 21, 1967, in Greece.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Tasoulas highlighted the ongoing impact of the junta’s deviation from democracy, noting that the illegal occupation of Cyprus stands as the most severe consequence. Despite UN resolutions, the occupation persists, underscoring the harsh price paid by Hellenism before the dictatorship ultimately fell under its own transgressions.
President Tasoulas also emphasized the junta’s role in the overthrow of elected Cyprus President Makarios, stressing the importance of learning from this “dark anniversary.” He urged political leaders and citizens to protect and enhance national institutions, unity, and the collective effort towards stability and normalcy.
The division of Cyprus dates back to 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied the northern part of the island following a coup by the Greek Junta. Despite numerous rounds of UN-led peace talks, a resolution remains elusive. The most recent negotiations, held in July 2017 at Crans-Montana in Switzerland, ended without agreement.