Morphou Mayor Calls for Renewed Cyprus Negotiations at Anti-Occupation Event

New York: The Mayor of Morphou, Viktor Hadjiavraam, expressed optimism about the upcoming dialogue between the President of the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Cypriot leader, describing it as a “glimmer of hope” for reigniting negotiations to resolve the Cyprus problem. This statement was made during the annual Morphou anti-occupation march at the Astromeritis Cultural Centre, an event also addressed by President Nikos Christodoulides.

According to Cyprus News Agency, the forthcoming meeting in New York aims to pick up from where the last talks left off in Crans Montana seven years ago, with the ultimate goal being an agreed solution for a unified Cyprus. The mayor highlighted the worsening stance of Turkey regarding the Cyprus issue, emphasizing that the only acceptable resolution is a bizonal, bicommunal federation, ensuring political equality as outlined in United Nations resolutions.

The event underscored the community’s persistence in seeking a peaceful resolution, respecting the rights and freedom
s of all Cypriots. During the march, Morphou Deputy Mayor Stelios Palaontas presented a resolution to a UN representative, urging the UN Secretary General to hold Turkey accountable and to push for a return to the negotiating table. The resolution advocates for a Cyprus free from foreign troops, the abolition of outdated guarantees, and the right of return for refugees.

Cyprus has remained divided since the 1974 Turkish invasion, with numerous attempts at peace talks, most recently in 2017, failing to achieve a lasting solution.