Cyprus` division leaves no room for complacency, the President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades points out, in a message to mark today`s anniversary of Turkey`s second offensive against Cyprus in the summer of 1974.
He also says that it is imperative in the context of the ongoing peace talks to reach a solution which will end Turkey`s continuing occupation of the Republic`s northern part and which will be in line with UN resolutions and European law.
The President said that his vision is “for the tragic anniversary of the second phase of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus to become a beacon for unity to rid the country of the occupation.”
In a written statement Anastasiades recalls that 42 years ago the second phase of the Turkish invasion in Cyprus was launched.
The 42nd anniversary of the second invasion finds Cyprus divided and its citizens denied basic human rights, President Anastasiades notes.
“There is no room for complacency. It is imperative, in the context of the ongoing negotiations, to try and reach an agreement which will end the occupation and impose a solution in the framework of United Nations resolutions and European law,” he stresses.
“We will continue this effort, having faith in what we are capable of and remaining resolute in our principles,” he assures.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. UN-led talks between President Anastasiades and the leader of the Turkish Cypriot community Mustafa Akinci have been underway since May 2015, aiming to reunify the island under a federal roof.