The Republic of Cyprus remains in continuous communication with the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) and is fully committed to international law, supporting efforts to de-escalate tensions, government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said in a written statement on Wednesday regarding a violation of the buffer zone in the Pyla area.
Letymbiotis said the incident, which took place north of Pyla, involved occupying forces and constituted a breach of the established status quo and international law.
Buffer zone
He stressed that the action appears aimed at challenging the status of the buffer zone, as well as the role and mandate of UNFICYP, and at creating new faits accomplis on the ground.
“The Republic of Cyprus, with full adherence to international law, has been in constant contact with UNFICYP from the outset, supporting efforts for de-escalation,” he said.
At the same time, the spokesman highlighted the immediate response of the UN peacekeeping force to the violation, as well as its public statements on the matter.
He added that it is expected UNFICYP will continue to take all necessary measures and actions to prevent the creation of new faits accomplis, as it has done so far, in line with its mandate and responsibilities.
CNA