50 year split: Memorial services in Cyprus’ south, parades in the north

·

The 50th anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus was recognised over the weekend with stark conflicting events.

Greek Cypriots in the south acknowledged the milestone as a “tragic anniversary,” memorialising and mourning those who lost their lives in the 1974 Turkish invasion.

According to The Guardian, Greek Cypriots awoke to air raid sirens reminding them of the arrival of thousands of invading Turkish troops on the eastern Mediterranean island five decades ago.

Cyprus’ President, Nikos Christodoulides, described the anniversary as a sombre occasion for reflection and remembering the dead.

“Our mission is liberation, reunification and solving the Cyprus problem,” he said. “If we really want to send a message on this tragic anniversary… it is to do anything possible to reunite Cyprus.”

President Nikos Christodoulides, (right) at Tymvos Makedonitissa military cemetery in Nicosia, Cyprus. Photograph: Katia Christodoulou/EPA
President Nikos Christodoulides, (right) at Tymvos Makedonitissa military cemetery in Nicosia, Cyprus. Photo: Katia Christodoulou/EPA.

In the Turkish-occupied north, Turkey’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, flew in to attend a military parade and fly-past commemorating the “peace operation.”

During his visit, Erdogan reinforced his support for the highly denounced two-state solution stating, “A federal solution in Cyprus is not possible, this is what we believe.”

The two-state solution has been totally rejected by Greek Cypriots and fellow member states of the EU.

Source: The Guardian.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Andrew Caramanis: The Sydney student on a mission to preserve the Greek language

For Andrew Caramanis, the Greek language is more than just words – it’s a connection to his roots and a passion that shapes his identity.

Mavromoustakos brothers’ charity football match raises over $4,000 for African kids

The Mavromoustakos brothers' Charity Football Match made a triumphant return in 2025, once again uniting the community for a great cause.

Hundreds enjoy classic cars and Greek delights at Liverpool’s Summer Paniyiri

The Summer Paniyiri Car Show in Liverpool was a spectacular celebration of Greek culture, community spirit, and classic cars.

Experience the spirit of Epirus at the Panipirotiki Enosis of NSW’s Annual Dance

The Panipirotiki Enosis of NSW is set to hold an unforgettable evening of music, dance and culture at its highly anticipated Annual Dance.

Roma Siachos resigns as President of the Hellenic Writers’ Association of Australia

Roma Siachos has resigned as President of the Hellenic Writers' Association of Australia, citing family and personal reasons.

You May Also Like

Jodi McKay:‘The thing I love about Greek people is that there is an enthusiasm for their culture’

New South Wales Opposition Leader, Jodi McKay, shared her thoughts on the need for more diverse voices in Parliament and women in politics.

Sydney man Matthew Palavidis faces charges of sexual touching and common assault

A “VIP” diner and regular visitor to an exclusive Sydney restaurant has been accused of attempting to undo a waitress's corset.

Stefanos Tsitsipas gives back to the homeless in Manila

The Greek tennis star enjoyed a successful trip to the Phillipines, beating the Southeast Asian country in the Davis Cup, yet was more rewarded by the amazing people and culture in Manila.