Written Statement by the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr Nikos Christodoulides, on the condemnation of the 41st anniversary of the illegal declaration of the secessionist entity in the occupied area of Cyprus

The 15th of November 1983 is more thana sombre date. It constitutes the attempt to legitimise Cyprus’ occupation by Turkey, as well as the de factodivision, which we will never allow and will never accept.

Turkey’s long-standing effort over the years to politically and diplomatically legitimise the secessionist entity in the occupied area of Cyprus is unfounded in any way.The Republic of Cyprus is the only legitimate state in Cyprus and the Government of the Republic of Cyprus is the sole recognised Authority on Cyprus territory, which –and we must never forget this– has been an integral part of the European Union territoryfor the last 20 years. Illegality does not generate Law.

This day also serves as a reminder of our grave duty to work towards reversing what was caused by Turkey’s illegal invasion of our homeland in 1974 and the ongoing presence of occupation troops for 50 years now, violating every concept of Law.

We remain committed to the effort to create the conditions for the resumption of substantial talks for a solution to the Cyprus problem, with the aim of liberating our country from the occupying troops and reunifying it, with respect to International Law, human rights, the principles and values of the European Union.

Beyond International Law, at the forefront of the efforts I conduct to create the conditions for a solution to the Cyprus problem, lies the enhanced role of the Republic of Cyprus, as a result of the strategy we pursue in order to consolidate our country as a pillar of stability and security in the particularly important region of the Middle East.

We make the most of our European status, we expand the factors of power, we enhance our diplomatic footprint, and we create strategies and synergies that facilitate us to operate without phobia,in an international environment characterised by instability and uncertainty.

The Republic of Cyprus is the common home of all its legal citizens, Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots, Maronites, Armenians, Latins, for whom we are working towards ensuring conditions of democracy, security and prosperity.

(MS)

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