Cyprus' independence in the face of threats

After the conclusion of the military parade for the anniversary of Cyprus' Independence yesterday, Defense Minister, Michalis Georgallas, emphasized in his epeech that the independence of the Republic of Cyprus is a response to all those who are plotting the dissolution of the state entity.

He said that the Republic of Cyprus, despite the difficulties, remains standing and is progressing comparing it to a modern, reliable, European state, an equal member of the EU, and recognized by the international community.

"The independence of the Republic of Cyprus is not just an anniversary. It is a living historical landmark and a response to all those who are plotting to destroy our state entity", he underlined.

He added that we are sending the message that we will continue to build our defense, by strengthening its operational capabilities and its deterrence capability.

The Republic of Cyprus gained its independence from the British Empire in 1960, after a 4-year anti-colonial struggle. It has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.

The Hellenic Republic remains committed to supporting Cypriots, Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias pledged, pointing out that true independence is a continuous commitment to safeguarding the rights and aspirations of the nation, within the framework of the European acquis, democracy, human rights, respect for borders and of the treaties of international law and the law of the sea.

In statements after the military parade in Nicosia for Cyprus Independence Day, Dendias noted that in this commitment we walk together with all the countries of the region, "under one top and basic condition: that all the countries are willing to co-sign the principles mentioned above, especially the respect for borders, treaties, international law and the law of the sea", he underlined .

The Republic of Cyprus gained its independence from the British Empire in 1960, after a 4-year anti-colonial struggle. It has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.