Nicosia: There is a window of hope today for the resolution of the Cyprus problem, President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides said on Wednesday in a televised address on the occasion of the Independence Day of the Republic of Cyprus, stressing that the wall of the occupation is not impenetrable.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides expressed that while the current situation is not ideal, developments have kept hope alive. He emphasized the importance of continuing persistent efforts to address the challenges faced by Cyprus. The President highlighted the significance of the 65th anniversary of Cyprus’ independence, achieved after the struggle for freedom from colonial rule, and underscored the need to safeguard this achievement.
He lamented the ongoing division of Cyprus due to the 51-year presence of the Turkish occupying army following the 1974 invasion. The President detailed how this occupation has kept Cyprus divided, restricting the free movement and peaceful living of its lawful residents.
President Christodoulides praised the resilience of the Cypriot people, who, despite the adverse conditions, successfully rebuilt the state and economy. He noted that Cyprus’ accession to the European Union in 2004 marked a pivotal transformation, laying the foundation for a sustainable future.
From the start of his tenure, President Christodoulides prioritized resuming negotiations for a solution to the Cyprus issue, stalled since the 2017 Crans-Montana talks. He acknowledged the challenges of reactivating international involvement amid global conflicts but highlighted the progress made through the UN Secretary-General’s ongoing initiative. The President emphasized the strategic linkage of EU-Turkey relations to the Cyprus issue and Turkey’s obligations as a crucial step in re-engaging international actors.
He stressed the importance of realism and determination in addressing the long-standing challenges. The President expressed confidence that the initiatives undertaken would eventually lead to substantive negotiations based on the agreed framework and EU principles.
The President also acknowledged the shift in Ankara’s stance, which previously demanded recognition of sovereign equality as a precondition for discussions. He expressed optimism that despite obstacles, the current situation presents a window of hope for progress.
Alongside efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue, President Christodoulides highlighted domestic initiatives aimed at strengthening Cyprus’ power. These include reforms in governance, the rule of law, anti-corruption efforts, migration management, and enhancing social welfare. He emphasized the importance of a resilient economy, boasting Cyprus’ strong economic performance even amid global conflicts.
Internationally, Cyprus aims to be a pillar of stability in the Eastern Mediterranean. The President noted Cyprus’ strategic geographical advantage and its role as a reliable partner in promoting peace and cooperation. Cyprus’ upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union presents an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to European integration and multilateralism.
President Christodoulides concluded with a message of unity and determination, emphasizing the shared future with Turkish Cypriots in a united, EU-member Cyprus. He expressed pride in Cyprus’ achievements over the past 65 years and reaffirmed the commitment to achieving justice, liberation, and reunification.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results due to Turkish intransigence. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.