Cypriot President Anastasiades Appeals to Turkey for Solution

Government Spokesman Nicos Christodoulides described the President's stance in a written statement. The Cypriot Spokesman states, "On the occasion of the anniversary of the second phase of the Turkish invasion, President of the Republic Mr. Nicos Anastasiades and the Government deplore the continuing occupation of territory belonging to the Republic of Cyprus, calling on Turkey to withdraw its troops from Cyprus and work towards achieving a just, functional and viable solution of the Cyprus problem", as reported by Parikiaki.

Christodoulides further commented, "the return of the fenced-off town of Famagusta to its rightful inhabitants, on the basis of a proposal by the President of the Republic and relevant UN resolutions, constitutes a first class opportunity for Turkey to prove in practice that which it declares publicly concerning its will for a solution of the Cyprus problem".

The Spokesman added, "Such an action would send the message to the Greek Cypriots that they can trust Turkey, would turn out to the benefit of the Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots alike, since through co-creation they will enjoy mutual benefits, and at the same time would push forward the whole process for a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem".

Christodoulides additionally stated, "with thoughts always on the refugees, the enclaved and the relatives of missing persons, the President of the Republic and the Government send to all citizens and the political leadership a message of national understanding', adding that the solution of the Cyprus problem is a common national aim and demands unity of forces and national unity".