Members of the World Hellenic Inter-Parliamentary Association (PADEE – WHIA) have expressed their support for the Republic of Cyprus in its quest to end Turkish occupation and find a fair solution to the Cyprus issue.
The delegates, which included the 2nd Vice-President of PADEE – WHIA and Federal Member for Adelaide Steve Georganas MP, are in Cyprus to mark the 50th anniversary of the Turkish invasion.
During a press conference on Monday morning, elected officials of Greek or Cypriot descent from countries such as the USA, Canada, South Africa, Australia, and Ukraine discussed their efforts to raise awareness of the Cyprus issue in their respective nations. They also called for stronger ties between Cyprus and their countries of residence.
WHIA president and Rhode Island senator Leonidas Raptakis condemned the Turkish invasion and voiced the organisation’s support for the people of Cyprus.
“We are united for the future of Cyprus,” he said. “Cyprus, Greece and the USA play a crucial role in regional stability.”
For his part, Mr Georganas said the Cyprus issue is regularly discussed in Australia’s parliament. He condemned the ongoing occupation, noting that Cyprus is the only divided EU country. He also called for a solution for families of missing persons.
The WHIA delegation met Nicosia mayor Charalambos Prountzos on Sunday and met Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas and National Guard Chief Georgios Tzitzikostas on Monday. Today, WHIA members will meet Cyprus’ President Nikos Christodoulides.
Source: Cyprus Mail.
 have expressed their support for the Republic of Cyprus.){kind=link}