Famagusta: We will continue to hope for freedom and keep the faith as regards returning to our city, Mayor of Famagusta, Simos Ioannou, said Saturday, in his speech at the Municipality’s annual anti-occupation event held in Deryneia, during which he asked the President of the Republic to include the fenced-off area of Famagusta in the confidence-building measures (CBMs) and to officially support bicommunal initiatives.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Ioannou highlighted that for 51 years since Cyprus’ Turkish occupation, the status quo ‘has changed and is constantly changing’. He noted that 47 years have passed since the first proposals for the return of the fenced-off area of Famagusta to its inhabitants, while also giving an overview of the plans, proposals, and actions concerning Famagusta. He concluded that five years have passed since Turkey opened the fenced-off area of the town without any intervention.
Ioannou emphasized that faits accomplis are being created as regards the Turkish occupation, while also referring to ‘new obstacles, new international conditions, new risks of conflict’. Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism about the possibility of returning to their homes, affirming his belief in the potential for freedom for all Cypriots.
Addressing President Christodoulides, Ioannou offered support in efforts to resolve the Cyprus problem, stressing that the Cypriots, both Greek and Turkish, are united in the fight for reunification. However, he noted that mobilizing this collective strength requires hope, support, and organization, calling for the inclusion of Famagusta as a demand among the CBMs and for official support for bicommunal initiatives.
The Famagusta Municipality, Ioannou stated, is determined to resist pessimism and cynicism, projecting a vision for a future that counters Turkish plans. He called for collective support, emphasizing that Famagusta represents a promise for the future rather than a ghost of the past.
During the event, a march to the Deryneia crossing point culminated in the presentation of a resolution to the UNFICYP. The resolution called on Turkey to cease its unlawful actions in Famagusta and to respect international law and UN resolutions. It also urged the Cypriot Government to reassess its strategy on the Cyprus issue and undertake new initiatives at both European and international levels.
The resolution reaffirmed commitment to a Bi-zonal, Bicommunal Federation with political equality, expressing concern over the absence of dialogue and Turkish intransigence. It appealed to international bodies to pressure Turkey to abandon destabilizing actions and return to negotiations.
The council also acknowledged Turkish Cypriot community efforts opposing division and supporting reunification, urging the Cypriot Government to strengthen cooperation with these groups and promote collaboration between communities. It emphasized the struggle for mutual respect and cooperation within the framework of a united Cyprus.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Varosha, the fenced-off section of Famagusta, remains a contentious area. UN resolutions have called for its administration by the UN and for the reversal of actions taken since its partial opening in 2020, with international bodies expressing ongoing concerns.