Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus parliament renewed calls on Thursday for international recognition of the Armenian Genocide as MPs marked its 111th anniversary. House speaker Annita Demetriou told the plenary that the “Armenian tragedy remains unjust to this day,” citing continued Turkish denial.
Demetriou addresses plenary
Demetriou said Turkey “not only refuses to recognise the genocide but continues its expansionist policy to the detriment of its neighbouring peoples,” adding that Cyprus continues to feel the consequences.
She referred to Cyprus’ longstanding position, noting that the House recognised the genocide in 1975. She said April 24, 1990, was declared a National Day of Remembrance, and that in 2015 the denial of the Armenian Genocide was criminalised in Cyprus.
References to 1915 events
Demetriou described the events of 1915 as “one of the most heinous crimes against humanity,” recalling that the arrest and execution of Armenian intellectuals in Istanbul marked the start of a systematic campaign of extermination.
Support for Armenian community
Demetriou said Cyprus would continue to offer “undivided support” to Armenian compatriots, and referred to their “valuable and timeless contribution” to Cypriot society.
She concluded by calling for accountability, saying “only through truth, justice and respect for international law can peace and be built.”
Parliament observed a minute of silence following her address.
Mahdesian intervention
Vartkes Mahdesian, representative of the Armenian community, criticised what he described as international inconsistency in dealing with Turkey.
How do you think international recognition efforts should be pursued in response to parliamentary calls like these?
