Larnaca:President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides highlighted the critical importance of the fenced-off area of Famagusta as a pivotal step towards resolving the Cyprus problem during an event on Tuesday. He described it as the most significant Confidence-Building Measure (CBM) and a clear demonstration of genuine intent to achieve a solution and reunification of Cyprus.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides reiterated the government's commitment to resuming negotiations. He stressed the necessity of a strong united domestic front to advance these efforts.
During his speech at a commemoration event by Anorthosis Famagusta for October 28, 1940, held at the Monastery of Saint George Kontos in Larnaca, President Christodoulides underscored the shared responsibility of Cypriots to contribute towards ending the occupation and achieving liberation. He called for a united response, respecting diverse perspectives, to pursue the common goal of liberation.
President Christodoulides compared the current struggle to the historical resilience shown by Greeks in Cyprus during the Second World War. He emphasized that the ultimate goal is to free Cyprus from occupation and the current illegal state of affairs.
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, the President expressed commitment to resuming negotiations with a clear strategy and perseverance. He placed a particular focus on Famagusta, advocating for the fenced-off area as a critical starting point for the solution of the Cyprus problem.
He also paid homage to the events of 1940 as symbols of resistance and struggle, highlighting the participation of approximately 20,000 Cypriot volunteers in reinforcing the Allied forces during the war. He honored the sacrifices of Anorthosis members who lost their lives in battle.
President Christodoulides praised Anorthosis Famagusta for its historical contributions and its role in preserving cultural and historical memory, especially after displacement. He commended the club for its dedication to organizing events that commemorate national anniversaries, underscoring the importance of passing historical memory to future generations.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern part. Varosha, a fenced-off section of Famagusta, remains a contentious area, with UN Security Council resolutions calling for its transfer to UN administration. Recent developments included the partial opening of Varosha by the Turkish side in 2020, drawing calls for reversal from the UN and expressions of concern from the EU.