This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, which resulted in the seizure and occupation of one-third of the island's territory by Turkish military forces, in violation of fundamental principles of international law, the Foreign Ministry stated in a release on Saturday.
"Greece profoundly respects the sacred memory of those who fell, empathizes with the tragedy of the missing and the displaced, and expresses gratitude to all those who bravely fought for the defense of Cyprus. Greece does not accept undue threats, divisive resolutions, or faits accomplis on the ground.
The Cyprus issue remains an unresolved international concern regarding the illegal invasion and occupation of a member state of both the European Union and the United Nations. The perpetuation of the current status quo, characterized by the presence of occupying troops and the creation of two states, is not an acceptable solution to the Cyprus problem.
In solidarity with the Republic of Cyprus, Greece remains committed to achieving a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation in accordance with the UN Security Council resolutions. Greece supports the UN Secretary-General's efforts to initiate dialogue aimed at the reunification of Cyprus, based on a single sovereignty, a single international personality, and a single citizenship. The resolution of the Cyprus issue has been and will continue to be a top national priority," the statement concluded.