The foreign ministry has condemned the visit of Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz to northern Cyprus, which coincides with the anniversary of the Turkish invasion in 1974.
- The foreign ministry has condemned the visit of Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz to northern Cyprus, which coincides with the anniversary of the Turkish invasion in 1974.
In a statement released on Monday, the ministry reaffirmed its commitment to the liberation and reunification of Cyprus, emphasising the need for a sustainable solution within the framework established by the United Nations. The ministry stated that this approach must enforce international law while ensuring the rights and well-being of all Cypriots.
The statement also highlighted that Yilmaz’s presence in the north is a clear indication of the acceptance of Turkish occupation and ongoing violations. “These violations have been consistently condemned by the relevant Resolutions of the United Nations Security Council and by the international community, including the European Union,” the ministry remarked.
Turkish vice: Yilmaz’s Remarks During the Military Parade
During a military parade held to mark the 52nd anniversary of the invasion, Yilmaz asserted that Turkey’s actions in 1974 led to peace not only for Turkish Cypriots but also for Greek Cypriots across the island. He described the years leading up to the invasion as a period of suffering for Turkish Cypriots, stating, “The 11-year period of persecution and the ordeal which Turkish Cypriots endured between 1963 and 1974 ended, and the conditions for our brothers and sisters to live in peace and security in their own homeland were established.”
Ongoing Tensions and International Reactions
The visit by Yilmaz has sparked renewed tensions between the two communities on the island. The foreign ministry’s statement reflects a broader sentiment among many Cypriots who view the Turkish presence as an occupation. The situation remains a contentious issue, with differing narratives on the events of 1974 and their aftermath.
As the anniversary of the invasion is observed, the calls for a peaceful resolution and reunification of Cyprus continue to resonate within both local and international circles. The foreign ministry reiterated its stance, stressing that only through a collaborative effort can a lasting and just solution be achieved.
