CNA
Cyprus’ President of the House of Representatives Demetris Syllouris has pointed out the need to find a just and viable solution to the Cyprus problem that would not legitimize the Turkish occupation of Cyprus since 1974 but a solution that would remove barbed wire, dividing walls, foreign armies, settlers and guardians.
In his speech at a national memorial service held for Greek Cypriots who lost their lives during 1974 Turkish invasion, on Sunday, Syllouris said that during these days memory goes back to the tragedy of 1974 coup d` etat and the Turkish invasion in Cyprus.
He said that we should learn from the heroic actions and sacrifices of those who fought and were killed in 1974, adding that we must remain committed to the goal for which they gave their lives and continue the struggle to find a just and viable solution to the Cyprus problem.
A solution, he said, that will not legitimize Turkish occupation, but one that will remove barbed wire, dividing walls, foreign armies, settlers and guardians. A solution, he added, that will guarantee human rights and fundamental freedoms and will be in line with the European acquis, EU principles and values.
House President added that we must not become vulnerable to pressures and unacceptable blackmail by Turkey which is carrying out illegal and provocative actions in the Eastern Mediterranean region in violation of international law and European principles and values.
At the same time, he added, we have a collective duty to modernize our state and consolidate our institutions, eliminating all elements of corruption which will allow us to build a European state, a state of law and equality that will create conditions of security, progress and prosperity for all citizens of Cyprus.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and occupied its northern third. Turkey has ignored numerous UN resolutions calling for the withdrawal of the Turkish troops and respect of the integrity and sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus.
Turkish drill ship “Yavuz” arrived last April in the exclusive economic zone (ΕΕΖ) of Cyprus, after Ankara announced another attempt to drill a well in blocks licensed to European companies. This is the 6th time Turkey attempts to drill within the EEZ and continental shelf of the Republic of Cyprus, this time in an area that covers part of exploration blocks 6 and 7, which have been licensed to ENI and TOTAL.
In a statement on May 15, EU Foreign Ministers deplored the fact that Turkey has not yet responded to EU calls to cease such activities and reiterated their call on Ankara to show restraint, refrain from such actions, and respect the sovereignty and sovereign rights of Cyprus, in accordance with international law. EU Foreign Ministers also reaffirmed previous Council and European Council conclusions, notably those of June 2019 and October 2019 on Turkey’s continued illegal activities in the Eastern Mediterranean.
CNA
