The President of the Republic of Cyprus addressed global and regional issues, emphasizing Cyprus’ commitment to international law, peace and diplomacy. He first congratulated Philemon Young on his election as President of the 79th UN General Assembly and reaffirmed Cyprus’ support for the principles of the UN Charter for peace, stability and respect for sovereignty.

“Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a sovereign nation, came as yet another stark reminder of what is at stake if we do not defend and uphold the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter.

Cyprus unequivocally condemns any violation of international peace and security committed through military action by any state against the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of another statehe said.

Nikos Christodoulidis condemned terrorism, referring to the October 7 attacks and stressed the need for a unified global response to human rights violations.

The President of the Republic highlighted the humanitarian situation in Gaza, with Cyprus playing a role in providing assistance with the Amalthia initiative and acting as a stabilizing force in the region.

“We have consistently stated this commitment and will continue to do so. Cyprus has repeatedly acted as a regional evacuation hub in times of crisis. A safe bridge, a safe haven for citizenss” he said.

Then the president of the Republic referred to the Cyprus issue marking the 50 years since the Turkish invasion in 1974 in the country and strongly condemned the continued occupation of 37% of the island by Turkey, characterizing it as a violation of the sovereignty of Cyprus and international law.

“It is an insult to this plenary to call an invasion a peacekeeping operation. Revisionism cannot change reality. Not now, not ever. To Mr. Erdogan I also say: Now is the time to live up to your declared commitment to international law and peace. No country that believes in the moral superiority of its position refuses to sit at the negotiating tablehe said.

Mr. Christodoulidis highlighted the plight of displaced Cypriots and the issue of the missing, underlining the urgent need to end the occupation and implement UN Security Council Resolutions, including the return of the fenced-off area of ​​Varosia to its rightful residents.

“And my answer, the answer of the international community is clear: The illegality resulting from the invasion, aggression and use of force can NOT be recognized. International law is not à la carte. Its interpretation does not change depending on who the offender is. It applies equally in all circumstances, in all countrieshe said.

The Cypriot president reiterated Cyprus’ commitment to reunification on the basis of a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality, in accordance with UN Resolutions and EU principles.

He called for the restart of negotiations and expressed his immediate readiness to immediately return to the negotiating table, urging Turkey to abandon its revisionist stance and engage in meaningful dialogue for a peaceful, united Cyprus.

“I am determined to work tirelessly and bravely for peace in Cyprus. To reunite my country and its people, in a modern, viable European state, without occupation troops, without foreign guarantees, which have no place in a European country. Anachronism cannot be the future. I am determined to secure for all Cypriots all the rights and fundamental freedoms enjoyed by other Europeans. They deserve nothing less” emphasized the president of the Republic.

Mr. Christodoulidis expressed his determination to work towards peace and cooperation, supporting a sustainable future for all Cypriots and reinforcing the importance of multilateralism in solving global challenges.