Athens, Greece. Greece’s foreign ministry said the country remains ready to contribute to efforts to resolve the Cyprus problem, marking the 52nd anniversary of Turkey’s invasion of the island.
The ministry said Greece supports a comprehensive, mutually acceptable settlement based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality, one international personality, one sovereignty and one citizenship.
Anniversary message
In its message, the foreign ministry said the Turkish invasion of July 20, 1974, caused the “territorial mutilation” of the Republic of Cyprus and the continuing plight of thousands of missing, displaced and enclaved people.
It said the events violated international law and added that Greece bows to the memory of those who died and expresses respect and gratitude to those who defended the island.
Support for UN process
The ministry described the Cyprus problem as an international issue concerning the illegal invasion and occupation of a European Union and United Nations member state.
It said Greece, in solidarity with the Republic of Cyprus, remains committed to a settlement based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots.
Greece said it would continue to contribute constructively to efforts led by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to restart talks. It added that a resolution within the parameters set by the UN Security Council, the reunification of the island and the lifting of the occupation remain top priorities.
1974 events
Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus followed a coup d’état on the island five days earlier, sponsored by Greece’s military junta at the time. The events in Cyprus contributed to the collapse of the junta in Athens and Greece’s transition to democracy.