Athens , 17 July 2009

“20 July brings to mind – for us and the international community – the tragic consequences of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974: the uprooting and displacement of persons; mass violations of human rights; the pillaging of cultural monuments; the suffering of the families of those who went missing; Turkish settlement that continues today, altering the demographic and cultural characteristics of the island.

The international community has never recognized the fait accompli  of the violence in Cyprus, and it never will.

We believe in the possibility of a peaceful and agreed solution for the Cyprus issue; a solution that reflects the interests of all Cypriots. Turkey has a critical role to play. A positive response from Ankara will contribute towards a solution that will give new momentum to Turkey’s EU accession course, and it will certainly contribute to the promotion of Greek-Turkish relations.

Greece’s objective has been and remains the ending of the Turkish occupation within the framework of a comprehensive, mutually acceptable, just and viable solution to the Cyprus problem; a solution in accordance with the resolutions of the UN Security Council. A functional solution that is compatible with Cyprus’ status as a member of the European Union.

The wounds left by the invasion and continuing occupation of the Republic of Cyprus must heal so that the Cypriot people live united and secure within the framework of the European Union. We firmly support the tireless initiative and efforts of President Christofias to find a “Cypriot” solution to the problem.

Turkey continues to hold the key to the solution. It must show, in practice, that it wants to turn the page; that it is capable of assimilating Europe’s principles and values.”