Nicos Kouyialis: Turkey's Occupation Denies Cypriots Their Rights as European Citizens
17:17 - 16 Αυγούστου 2016

Cypriots are the only European citizens not able to enjoy basic human rights in their own country, due to Turkey`s continuing occupation of the northern part of the island, Minister of Agriculture Nicos Kouyialis said on August 14, according to Cyprus News Agency.
He was addressing a memorial service for those from the region of Tylliria, who have fallen during the 1974 Turkish invasion. Speaking at the village church of Pachyammos, in Nicosia District, Kouyialis called for national unity in order to succeed in the effort for a Cyprus solution.
"We are fighting for a solution that will terminate the Turkish occupation, rid the country of the illegal settlers and free Cyprus of occupation troops and foreign dependencies" the Minister said.
He added that the Greek Cypriot side was attending the negotiations in a constructive spirit, aiming at an honest dialogue that will pave the way for the final settlement.
According to Kouyialis, the President of the Republic is determined to continue working hard for a Cyprus settlement in order to create the conditions for unity throughout the island.
“Only with national unity and tough work will we be able to continue our just fight in these crucial times,” the Minister concluded.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. UN-led talks between Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades and Turkish Cypriot leader Akinci have been underway since May 2015, aiming to reunify the island under a federal roof.
