Nicosia: 'Unfortunately, the tragedy of the Armenians remains unresolved to this day,' said House of Representatives President, Anita Dimitriou, during her speech before the Plenary Session on the 111th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Dimitriou highlighted Turkey's refusal to acknowledge the genocide and its ongoing expansionist policies affecting neighboring countries, including Cyprus.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Dimitriou reminded the audience that Cyprus was the first European nation to recognize the Armenian Genocide in 1975. She also mentioned that the country's House of Representatives declared April 24 as the National Day of Remembrance for the genocide and criminalized its denial in 2015.
Dimitriou described the genocide as one of the most severe crimes against humanity, referring to the events of 1915. On April 24 of that year, 250 prominent Armenians in Constantinople were arrested, tortured, and executed by the Young Turks regime, initiating a systematic extermination.
The Speaker also emphasized Cyprus' solidarity with the Armenian people, acknowledging the Armenian community's significant role in Cypriot society. She concluded with a call for international recognition of the genocide, asserting that such acknowledgment is crucial for preventing future atrocities and fostering peace.
Vartkes Mahtesian, spokesperson for the Armenian Community in Cyprus, echoed Dimitriou's sentiments. He criticized Turkey's denial of the genocide and accused international powers of supporting Turkey despite its actions. Mahtesian stressed the shared struggles of Armenians and Cypriots due to Turkish policies and called for unity in their fight for survival.
Mahtesian also criticized Turkey's domestic and foreign policies, including its treatment of minorities and territorial disputes. He noted the importance of holding perpetrators accountable to prevent future genocides, referencing recent conflicts involving Israel and Azerbaijan.
The session concluded with a minute of silence to honor the victims of the Armenian genocide.