Greek Cypriot leaders mark 52nd anniversary of Peace Operation

Greek Cypriot political leaders have issued statements marking the 52nd anniversary of the second phase of the Peace Operation. President Nikos Christodulides characterized the current status quo as ‘unacceptable,’ alleging that Turkey is expanding its occupation of parts of the Republic of Cyprus through the implementation of specific plans.

Christodulides highlighted the occupation of the Varosha (Maraş) closed zone, Morphou (Omorfo-Güzelyurt), and numerous villages, noting that thousands were forcibly displaced from their homes. He emphasized that ending the occupation and finding a sustainable solution to the Cyprus problem remains a top national priority.

The President also referenced ongoing efforts by UN Secretary-General António Guterres to facilitate renewed negotiations, aiming to resume discussions from where they left off in the summer of 2017 within a UN framework.

Other political figures joined the commemorations. Speaker of the House Annita Demetriou stated that they would not compromise on a divided homeland, while AKEL General Secretary Stefanos Stefanou reaffirmed the party's commitment to the struggle for a solution.