Paralimni: Turkey, much like in the case of the recognition of the Genocide of the Pontian Greeks, must first and foremost understand that its path to Europe inevitably passes through Cyprus, said President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides on Monday evening. Speaking at a memorial event in Paralimni marking the Genocide of the Pontian Greeks, President Christodoulides noted the relevance of Cyprus in regional geopolitics and in Turkey’s European aspirations.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides emphasized that recent developments, the result of Cyprus’ targeted diplomatic efforts, along with the evolving geopolitical landscape and the growing international role of the Republic of Cyprus, are creating a new momentum. He asserted that Turkey must realize that its European future is tied to Cyprus, paralleling the necessity of acknowledging the genocide of the Pontian Greeks.
President Christodoulides connected the memory of the Pontian Genocide to Cyprus’ ongoing struggle. He highlighted that as Greek Cypriots, they continue their long-standing fight for peace and unity on the island, which remains divided more than 50 years after the Turkish invasion and 70 years since the beginning of EOKA’s liberation struggle of 1955-59.
The President recounted the historical pain endured by Cypriots, comparing it to the Greeks of Asia Minor, Cappadocia, and Pontus, who faced violent uprooting. He noted that in 1974, Cypriot Hellenism suffered a devastating blow, with thousands forced to flee their homes due to the Turkish invasion and continued occupation.
He also recalled the 1974 transfer of Cypriot prisoners of war to Amasya in the Pontus region, a place with a grim history where 168 prominent Pontic Greeks were executed in 1921. He emphasized the shared suffering of Pontus and Cyprus, both victims of a common atrocity.
President Christodoulides concluded by underlining the importance of remembrance and the pursuit of justice. He stressed that as Cypriot refugees, like all uprooted Greeks, they remain committed to keeping alive the memory of their origins and continue to demand liberation, peace, and the reunification of their homeland.
Cyprus has remained divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third.