Agridia: Our objective remains the liberation of our homeland, a democratic and functional state without occupying troops and outdated guarantees, with full respect for the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all the lawful inhabitants of the island, said on Sunday the Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection, Nicholas Ioannides, in a memorial address at the national commemoration for the EOKA 1955-1959 hero Savvas Rotsides, in Agridia, a village in Limassol district.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Ioannides stated that Cyprus continues to experience the consequences of the invasion and occupation by Turkey. Thousands of Cypriots remain displaced within their own country, separated from their homes and properties. Ioannides emphasized the importance of not becoming accustomed to this harsh reality or accepting the unlawful outcomes of violence.
He reiterated the nation’s enduring goal of achieving the liberation of Cyprus, establishing a democratic and functional state free from occupying forces and obsolete guarantees, while ensuring full respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all lawful residents of the island. Ioannides invoked the legacy of Savvas Rotsides and other EOKA heroes, urging citizens to prioritize the nation’s interests, reject division, and advance with unity, prudence, and determination.
Cyprus has remained divided since 1974, following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of the island’s northern third. Despite numerous UN-led peace negotiations, a resolution remains elusive. The most recent talks, held in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana, ended without reaching an agreement.