Famagusta: Famagusta is the 'key and the heart' to the salvation of Cyprus, stated Simos Ioannou, Mayor of the Turkish-occupied city, during an event commemorating the city's fall to the Turkish army in August 1974.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Ioannou emphasized that the ongoing occupation has led to undesirable needs and habits, with ulterior motives being presented as realism. He criticized the acceptance of the faits accomplis from the 1974 conflict, underscoring the continuous destruction and changes brought about by settlement and development in 83% of the city. Ioannou highlighted the illegal developments moving further south and stressed the importance of the implementation of UN resolutions 550 and 789 for the return of Famagusta to its legal residents.
Ioannou reiterated the municipality's denunciation of Turkish violations and its commitment to the vision of a city that includes both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots. He praised the Turkish Cypriots who support the possibilities of return, freedom, and peace, and acknowledged the dangers posed by the ongoing occupation. The Mayor referred to the recent visit of the UN Secretary-General to Cyprus as a revitalization of hope, expressing a commitment to a Bizonal Bicommunal Federation solution.
The Mayor emphasized the readiness of the Famagusta community for the journey of return and a better future for their children, advocating for a future free from foreign armies and colonization. Ioannou concluded by affirming the historical significance of Famagusta and its role in the salvation of Cyprus.
Subsequently, Famagusta residents marched to the Deryneia checkpoint, delivering a resolution from the Famagusta Municipal Council to an UNFICYP delegation. The resolution reaffirmed the council's commitment to a Bizonal Bicommunal Federation with political equality as defined by UN resolutions. It called on Turkey to end its illegal actions, respect International Law, and contribute to a comprehensive solution. The resolution also urged the Cypriot people and political leaders to unite for the return of Famagusta and the country's reunification and prosperity.
The resolution highlighted the significance of the election of Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhrman in October 2025, expressing expectations for resuming dialogue on the Cyprus problem. It further appreciated the efforts of the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General and ongoing consultations for resuming talks. Lastly, it welcomed initiatives by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to create conditions for substantive negotiations on the Cyprus issue.