AKEL on anniversary of Cyprus Independence Day
AKEL C.C. Press Office, 30th September 2016, Nicosia
The declaration of Cyprus independence was a great gain of our people and the outcome of many fierce struggles. Although shackled by the Zurich-London agreements, our independence gave us possibility to safeguard our freedom and repel foreign plans and machinations. Unfortunately, many forces and circles did not believe in the young Republic of Cyprus. The foreign conspiracies and interventions found fertile ground, investing in nationalism-chauvinism and in the treacherous activity of the extreme-right which eventually resulted in the coup d’état and subsequent Turkish invasion.
Fifty-six years after the proclamation of Cyprus Independence, we are in the midst of a critical phase of the ongoing negotiations for a solution of the Cyprus problem. As AKEL, we always act responsibly, supporting the negotiation procedure, provided that it will progress based on the principles of the solution of the Cyprus problem that have long been collectively agreed.
The goal of reversing the occupation and achieving the reunification of our country and people also represents the only perspective for a happy and secure future for all Cypriots, Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots, Maronites, Armenians and Latins. We are struggling for a solution within the framework of the UN resolutions and High-Level Agreements in line with International and European law; for a solution that will lead to the transformation of the Republic of Cyprus from a unitary state to a bizonal, bicommunal federal solution with political equality, as defined in UN resolutions; for a one state solution with a single sovereignty, a single international personality and a single citizenship. We are struggling for a solution that will restore and safeguard the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all Cypriots. At the same time we are seeking to achieve the full verification of the fate of the missing persons.
On the occasion of the anniversary of Cyprus Independence, AKEL honors all those who fought and sacrificed their lives in defense of the independence, territorial integrity, democracy and legality in our country. AKEL honors and supports the relatives of our missing persons, the enclaved people in the occupied areas, war-stricken victims and refugees.
AKEL addresses a militant greeting to our people urging it to continue the struggle until the final vindication, to end the Turkish occupation and reunify Cyprus and its people.
