President Nikos Christodoulides has reiterated that opening the Pyroi crossing point remains a top priority for the Greek Cypriot side, saying he will continue to press the issue ahead of his upcoming visit to New York.
Speaking at celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of Athienou municipality, Christodoulides highlighted the potential impact of the crossing on local communities.
"From Pyroi to Aglantzia it's about 12 kilometres," he said, noting that the crossing would significantly improve access between Athienou and Nicosia.
Compromise proposal rejected
The president revealed that he had presented what he described as a "reasonable compromise" during his most recent meeting held in the presence of the UN Secretary-General.
According to Christodoulides, the Greek Cypriot side accepted the proposal, but it was rejected by the Turkish side.
Despite the setback, he stressed that the issue remains high on the government's agenda.
Occupation continues to affect Athienou
Christodoulides also referred to the development challenges facing Athienou, saying the town's prospects cannot be discussed without acknowledging the impact of the island's continued division.
He said the ceasefire line and the effects of the 1974 Turkish invasion continue to influence daily life, transportation, economic activity and development opportunities in the area.
"The consequences of the occupation are not an abstract political concept," he said.
Support for local development
The president highlighted government measures aimed at making Athienou a more attractive place to live, including housing schemes for rural, border and disadvantaged areas.
He said 121 applications from families in Athienou had been approved under the programme, with funding exceeding €5.3 million.
New projects approved
In remarks delivered outside his prepared speech, Christodoulides also announced approval of local requests concerning community infrastructure.
The government will proceed with:
- The transfer of the former Cooperative Bank building.
- The replacement of lighting at the Othellos Athienou football stadium.
"We will do that as well," the president said.
Source: CNA
