Political groups of the European Parliament posted on Sunday messages on X, condemning the Turkish invasion and occupation of Cyprus, on the occasion of the 51st anniversary since Turkey’s illegal military intervention in the island.
The European People’s Party (EPP) said that today marks the 51st year since the unlawful Turkish invasion of Cyprus and the occupation of one third of the island. “We support talks under UN auspices based on the formula of a bizonal, bicommunal federation, in line with the EU acquis & reject Turkey’s ideas for a ‘two states’ solution”, the EPP added.
The European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) stated that the suffering and sorrow caused by the Turkish invasion of Cyprus remain fresh in the minds of all Cypriots, even 51 years later. “We support justice for all those families whose loved ones are missing, and we work towards liberation of the island”, they add.
The Patriots for Europe group posted a three-minute video featuring statements by its MEPs, expressing support for Cyprus and condemnation of the Turkish invasion and occupation. The video ends with the MEPs repeating the slogan “We do not forget”. In their post, they wrote: “51 years of illegal Turkish occupation in Cyprus — a crime against the sovereignty and Europe itself. We, the Patriots for Europe, stand firm: this injustice must end!”.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third, starting its invasion on July 20th. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.