The 44th Anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus

A Message from AHC’s Executive Director

Today marks the 44th Anniversary of the Turkish invasion and continued illegal occupation of Cyprus. A brutal and horrific moment in human history, when Turkey, a fellow NATO member, invaded the Republic of Cyprus under the guise of “peaceful intervention”. Instead, what transpired was one of the greatest crimes against humanity witnessed in modern times.

For many within our community, the events which took place 44 years ago still haunt them. The massive human rights violations and ethnic cleansing, which were undertaken by Turkish troops not only affected Greek Orthodox and Maronite Christian Cypriots but also Muslim Cypriots, whose interests Turkey claims to be protecting.

In recent years, the Republic of Cyprus has made tremendous strides to become a geostrategic asset to the United States, the European Union, and Israel. It holds the potential of becoming a key contributor to regional peace and security, as well as an important energy corridor in the eastern Mediterranean.

However, these recent developments, which would benefit all Cypriots cannot be achieved unless Turkey ends its illegal occupation and harassment of the Republic of Cyprus. All Cypriots, whether Christian or Muslim, share more than just a stake in the island’s future. They share a common history, Hellenic ancestry, and the pain which comes with Turkey’s continued interference and manipulation of the island’s religious communities.

Therefore, on this day, the Council reaffirms its position and calls on the International Community to intervene on behalf of all Cypriots and help secure the end of Turkey’s occupation of the island. So that Cyprus made be a united and free Republic once more.  

Sincerely,

Ioannis Fidanakis

Executive Director

American Hellenic Council