The government is working to create the conditions needed for the resumption of direct negotiations on the Cyprus issue through a diplomatic initiative linked to Cyprus' broader foreign policy and growing regional role, Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou said on Sunday.
Speaking in Thessaloniki during an annual memorial service for those killed during the 1974 coup and the Turkish invasion, organised by the Republic's Consulate General and Cypriot community organisations, Ioannou said the government remains committed to a functional and viable settlement.
He stressed that the Cypriot people have never abandoned the goal of liberation and reunification, describing a Cyprus settlement as a top priority for President Nikos Christodoulides.
"With this unwavering commitment, we are working to create the conditions that will allow the resumption of direct negotiations, based on the agreed UN framework, the negotiating acquis and, above all, the principles, values and laws of the European Union," he said.
Ioannou added that a significant diplomatic effort is currently under way following what he described as the government's persistent efforts and clear political will.
He said the initiative is directly connected to the Republic of Cyprus' multi-layered foreign policy, which has strengthened the country's role and credibility both in the region and within the EU.
Referring to the events of July 1974, Ioannou described them as the greatest tragedy in the modern history of the Republic of Cyprus and one of the most painful chapters in the history of Hellenism.
He said the coup undermined democratic legitimacy and opened the way for the Turkish invasion, adding that historical truth must neither be disputed nor distorted.
"Memory serves truth. And truth is a prerequisite for justice, reunification and peace," he said.
Turning to current efforts to restart negotiations, Ioannou said the Greek Cypriot side is approaching the process with clear political will, actively supporting UN Secretary-General initiatives and making use of growing EU interest in the Cyprus issue, as well as the linkage between EU-Turkey relations and progress on Cyprus.
"The initiatives we have undertaken, the strengthening of our relations with strategic partners and the active role of the Republic of Cyprus within the European Union and the wider region have contributed to renewed international interest and the beginning of efforts aimed at returning to the negotiating table," he said.
Ioannou reiterated that the government's objective remains a free and reunited Cyprus, free from occupation troops and outdated guarantees.
He also highlighted support from EU partners and the wider international community, particularly Greece and the Greek people.
Referring to Thessaloniki and northern Greece, he said the region had welcomed Cypriots and refugee families displaced after the events of 1974 and had helped preserve the memory of Cyprus through successive generations.
"The greatest duty we owe to our heroes is to safeguard historical truth, strengthen our people's unity and pass on the lessons of history to future generations," he concluded.
