The President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, referred to global and regional issues, stressing Cyprus’ commitment to international law, peace and diplomacy. He reaffirmed Cyprus’ support for the UN Charter principles of peace, stability and respect for sovereignty.

“The Russian invasion of Ukraine, a sovereign nation, came as another stark reminder of what is at stake if we do not defend and uphold the principles enshrined in the UN Charter.

Cyprus unequivocally condemns any violation of international peace and security committed through military action by any state against the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of another state,” he said.

Nikos Christodoulides condemned terrorism, referring to the October 7 attacks, and stressed the need for a unified global response to human rights violations. The President highlighted the humanitarian situation in Gaza, with Cyprus playing a role in providing assistance through the Amalthea initiative and acting as a stabilising force in the region.

“We have consistently stated this commitment and we will continue to do so. Cyprus has repeatedly acted as a regional evacuation hub in times of crisis. A safe bridge, a safe haven for citizens,” he said.

The President of the Republic then referred to the Cyprus issue, noting the 50 years since the 1974 Turkish invasion of the country and strongly condemned Turkey’s continued occupation of 37% of the island, describing it as a violation of Cyprus’ sovereignty and international law.

“It is an insult to this plenary to call an invasion a ‘peacekeeping operation’. Revisionism cannot change reality. Not now, not ever. To Mr Erdogan I also say: now is the time to honour your stated commitment to international law and peace. No country that believes in the moral superiority of its position refuses to sit at the negotiating table,” he said.

Christodoulides stressed the suffering of displaced Cypriots and the issue of missing persons, underlining the urgent need to end the occupation and implement UN Security Council Resolutions, including the return of the fenced area of Varosha to its lawful inhabitants.

“And my response, the response of the international community is clear: The illegality resulting from the invasion, aggression and use of force CANNOT be recognized. International law is not à la carte. Its interpretation does not change depending on who the violator is. It is applied equally in all circumstances, in all countries.”

The Cypriot president reiterated Cyprus’ commitment to reunification on the basis of a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality, in line with UN resolutions and EU principles. He called for a resumption of negotiations and expressed his immediate readiness to return to the table immediately, urging Turkey to abandon its revisionist stance and engage in meaningful dialogue for a peaceful, united Cyprus.

“I am determined to work tirelessly for peace in Cyprus. To reunite my country and its people in a modern, viable European state, without occupation troops, without foreign guarantees, which have no place in a European country. Anachronism cannot be the future. I am determined to ensure for all Cypriots all the rights and fundamental freedoms enjoyed by other Europeans. They deserve nothing less,” the President of the Republic stressed.