Presidency Reaffirms Commitment to Cyprus Reunification Efforts

Nicosia: Fifty-two years is a long time, but not long enough to break our resolve, the Presidency of the Republic of Cyprus said in a post on X marking 52 years since the second phase of the Turkish invasion, stressing that the struggle continues, driven by the historic duty to hand future generations a free and reunified homeland. According to Cyprus News Agency, the statement emphasized the impact of the Turkish invasion, which forcibly divided Cyprus, placed it under occupation, and displaced thousands. The Presidency highlighted the violation of the ceasefire during the invasion, noting that Turkish military forces advanced to seize Famagusta and Morphou, completing their plan to create the Attila line, which remains in place to this day. The Presidency expressed its respect for those affected by the invasion, including the fallen, missing persons, refugees, and the enclaved, as well as every citizen and family still bearing the scars of the war. It acknowledged the sacrifices of those who fought for fr eedom, emphasizing that their efforts will be vindicated with the liberation of the homeland from occupation. Furthermore, the Presidency reiterated the Republic of Cyprus's demand for fundamental rights for all lawful citizens, regardless of ethnic background. It called for equal rights for Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots, Maronites, Armenians, and Latins, comparable to those enjoyed by other European citizens. The Presidency's post concluded with a commitment to continue the struggle for a free and reunified Cyprus, emphasizing the historic duty to pass on a united homeland to future generations. Cyprus has remained divided since 1974 due to the Turkish invasion, with numerous UN-led peace talks failing to resolve the situation. The latest negotiations in July 2017 at Crans-Montana ended without agreement.