President Nikos Christodoulides on Wednesday addressed the 79th United Nations General Assembly, focusing on Cyprus’ role in promoting peace in the Eastern Mediterranean, condemning ongoing conflicts, and highlighting the persistent division of Cyprus.
He also took the opportunity to respond to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s earlier speech at the assembly, calling Erdogan’s remarks revisionist and illegal under international law.
“Illegality stemming from invasion, aggression and use of force cannot be recognised. International law is not a la carte. Its interpretation does not change depending on who is the violator,” Christodoulides said.
He went further, addressing Erdogan directly: “Now is the time to deliver on your proclaimed commitment to international law and to peace. No country that believes in the moral superiority of its position refuses to sit at the negotiating table.”
Earlier in his speech, in a direct appeal to the international community, Christodoulides condemned the recent escalation of violence in Gaza, specifically addressing the humanitarian crisis that has unfolded since the terrorist attacks of October 7th last year.
“Women raped. Children killed and abducted. The elderly witnessing the burning flame of their loved ones; their future, extinguished before their eyes.
“There is never, ever, any justification for terror. There is never, ever, any justification for such blatant disregard for human life and dignity.
“No matter where it comes from, no matter whom it concerns. It concerns us all,” Christodoulides said.
Speaking of Cyprus’ role in the humanitarian response, Christodoulides outlined how the Republic had acted swiftly to alleviate the suffering of innocent civilians in Gaza.
“In the immediate aftermath of the October 7th attack, and as the humanitarian situation in Gaza deteriorated, the Republic of Cyprus acted. We acted on our moral responsibility to help the innocent civilians of Gaza,” he said, underlining Cyprus’ longstanding ties with the region and its commitment to acting as a stabilising force in turbulent times.
He then highlighted Cyprus’ efforts to establish the Amalthea maritime corridor, “a lifeline of humanitarian aid, aptly demonstrating the power of diplomacy, one of our most powerful tools”.
Christodoulides reaffirmed Cyprus’ commitment to humanitarian law and peacekeeping efforts, calling for an immediate end to the war.
“This war must end now. The suffering must stop now,” he said, making clear that Cyprus will continue to act decisively to prevent further escalation.
“We are deeply alarmed by recent developments in our neighbouring Lebanon and stress the need for restraint. A step back must be taken from the brink.”
The president also touched upon the conflict in Ukraine, drawing a parallel between the Russian invasion and Cyprus’ own history of occupation.
“Cyprus strongly condemns any breach of international peace and security effected through military action by any state, against the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of another state,” Christodoulides said.
He reminded the assembly that Cyprus had, from the very beginning of the conflict, “stood in an unwavering manner, since the first day of Russian invasion, on the right side of history”.
On the Cyprus problem, he said “the torch for peace in Cyprus awaits lighting”.
“Through use of force, Turkey occupies a sovereign European state. It violates the sovereignty and territorial integrity of an EU member state,” he said.
“Fifty years, half a century, of continuing Turkish occupation of approximately 37 per cent of the territory of the Republic of Cyprus. Of continuous violation of the UN Charter, international law, including international humanitarian and human rights law.
“50 years that the displaced stoically await to return to their ancestral homes. Half a century of blatant disregard of UN Security Council Resolutions. […] And yet, 50 years of resilience and hope by Cypriots.”
The president reiterated his readiness to resume negotiations for a viable solution, stressing that Cyprus cannot afford to remain in this status quo.
“I am determined to work tirelessly and bravely for peace in Cyprus. To reunify my country and its people, in a modern, viable European state, with no troops of occupation, no foreign guarantees,” he said.
Christodoulides framed the Cyprus problem as not just a national crisis, but a global one, where the very principles of the UN Charter are at stake, before calling for the return of the town of Varosha.
Addressing the broader Eastern Mediterranean, Christodoulides rejected the notion that the region is destined for perpetual conflict. Instead, he urged the international community to recognise the potential for cooperation and peace.
“I will never accept the linear narrative of a region in turmoil,” he said, calling for a political settlement in the Middle East based on relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
Christodoulides closed his speech with a call for unity and action, calling on world leaders to stand together and fulfil their collective responsibilities to uphold international law, human rights and the promise of peace for future generations.
