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A Cypriot civic group has criticized the government for turning down an offer of help from the Turkish Cypriot community to fight last week’s deadly wildfires, calling the move “an unacceptable political stance.”
In a strongly worded statement, the New Cypriot Association said the refusal may have cost critical time and resources in battling the fires that devastated parts of Limassol and Paphos, destroyed property, and claimed two lives.
“In moments like these, logic, solidarity, and humanity must prevail,” the statement read. “Working together in the face of disaster is not only necessary, it’s an opportunity to rebuild trust.”
"The rejection of aid deprived valuable resources and time, resulting in the loss of property that could have been saved and the endangerment of human lives," the Association said.
While the government has not publicly detailed the reasons behind the decision, the offer has sparked debate across communities, especially as fire crews struggled to contain multiple blazes in mountainous areas.
The Association urged authorities to put politics aside during emergencies, stressing that cooperation during times of crisis is not just practical, it’s a step toward reconciliation.
“In moments like these, logic, solidarity, and humanity must prevail,” the statement read. “Working together in the face of disaster is not only necessary, it’s an opportunity to rebuild trust.”
The New Cypriot Association promotes reunification and dialogue between Greek and Turkish Cypriots. Its latest remarks add to growing calls for more cross-community collaboration in times of need, regardless of long-standing political divisions.
The recent wildfires have prompted a wave of public criticism over crisis management, and the government is currently reviewing its emergency response as part of a broader investigation ordered by President Nikos Christodoulides.
Source: Kibris Postasi
