Nicosia: The current events within and beyond our borders, the 51-year-long illegal occupation of one-third of the island, as well as the ongoing Turkish provocations, allow no complacency, emphasized the Chief of the National Guard, Lieutenant General Georgios Tsitsikostas, in his daily order for the 65th anniversary of the declaration of the independence of the Republic of Cyprus.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Lieutenant General Tsitsikostas stressed that the enemy is not merely at the gates but within them, necessitating a constant state of readiness. The National Guard must operate 24 hours a day to safeguard the sovereign rights of the Republic of Cyprus on land, sea, and air. He underlined that there is no room for inaction given the current geopolitical challenges.
The Chief of the National Guard highlighted that the anniversary of October 1st serves as a reminder of the commitment required to fulfill their duty and mission. He remarked that freedom is not granted lightly and emphasized that the struggle and sacrifice for sovereignty are ongoing.
Lieutenant General Tsitsikostas also pointed out that October 1st marks the recognition of Cyprus as an independent state and its establishment as a sovereign and equal member of the Community of Nations.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite multiple rounds of UN-led peace talks, a resolution has remained elusive. The most recent negotiations, held in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana, concluded without agreement.