Since 1974, the international community has repeatedly condemned the illegal military occupation of the Republic of Cyprus by Turkey.
Since the invasion of the Republic of Cyprus by Turkey in 1974, Cyprus and the Cypriot people have battled for justice and human rights.
by Philip Christopher*
We have accomplished a lot as a nation in these last 38 years, although our primary objective is still unresolved. We salute the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Demetris Christofias, and the people for Cyprus for becoming a member state of the European Union, and for taking over the Presidency of the European Union.
Hellenic-American and Cypriot-American organizations have grown stronger and more organized, our younger generations have become more involved and we are united in our efforts to fight for justice for Cyprus and Hellenic issues.
Through such efforts the remains of many of our missing were identified, and their families can finally lay them to rest. We hope every single missing person is returned home and their loved ones can find peace. Yet Turkey not only continues its occupation, but under Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan, aims to turn Cyprus, the first Christian state, into an Islamic state.
We urge everyone to stay strong and focused on battling this great ongoing injustice, and assure you that we will not stop, we will not rest, until we see the removal of Turkish troops, the removal of the illegal settlers, and return of all refugees to their homes.
We urge all individuals to express their frustration in the way they feel appropriate. Whether it’s writing letters to their Member of the Senate and Congress, writing editorials, hosting cultural events or demonstrating their frustration outside of the Turkish embassy – everything counts, everything matters, as long as we work legally and cohesively, as long as our efforts are united and work toward a common strategy. Once again, today it is easier than ever to stay involved.
I remind everyone that we have promises to keep and miles to go before we sleep. We have made promises to our children, our parents and grandparents to see a united, free Republic of Cyprus.
Let us all work together and hopefully 2013 will be the year that freedom and justice will shine all over our beloved Cyprus.
*Philip Christopher is President of PSEKA
(International Coordinating Committe Justice for Cyprus)
