Given the longstanding and historic economic, social and cultural links between the UK and Cyprus, the British Government continues to play a crucial role in securing a just and viable solution to the Cyprus problem. The UK is a guarantor power, a permanent member of the UN Security Council, a member of the European Union and a leader in the Commonwealth: no other state has such vested interests in our homeland.

The Annual General Meeting of the Greek Cypriot Brotherhood, which was established in the UK in 1934, has resolved to call upon you not to waver from the principles that you and your Government, and previous administrations, have set out.

Sadly, following the unsuccessful outcome of the negotiations in Crans Montana, Turkey’s statements and actions appear to indicate an alarming policy. Discussion by Turkey’s Foreign Minister of a “Plan B” and finding a solution outside of the UN parameters, and the imposition of “customs duties” on goods transferred by the UN to the enclaved in the occupied areas, are a few examples of this worrying shift. Most disturbingly, in the last few days, threats by President Erdogan against the Republic of Cyprus warning it “not to step out of line” and that Cyprus’ strength will only last “until they see our planes” regarding legal exploration in its EEZ and Turkey’s illegal Navtex covering part of Block 3 in its EEZ, are unacceptable and a breach of the Law of the Sea Convention. Such actions only serve to undermine the sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus and actively hinder prospects for a solution.

We urge you to ensure that your Government remains committed to the UK’s obligations as set out in international law and the Treaty of Guarantee. The UK’s continued constructive contribution will be the key to progress. This needs to include openly condemning Turkey’s series of illegal and aggressive actions that occurred in Cyprus’ EEZ in the strongest possible terms. President Tayip Erdogan must also be condemned for his bellicose rhetoric towards Cyprus and international companies. Leaders of other countries have condemned these actions and behaviours and more pressure needs to be put on Turkey to bring about a more positive and constructive engagement on a solution to the Cyprus problem that includes the removal of Turkey’s occupying troops and the abolition of the outdated system of guarantees.

Our AGM has resolved to formally request, on behalf of all people of Cypriot origin living in the UK, that HMG stands firm on its commitment to the principles which should guide you and your Government’s actions in relation to Cyprus. Since 1974:

• Cyprus has been forcibly divided and occupied by Turkish troops.
• Continued military occupation breaches numerous UN and Security Council resolutions, and international law.
• Turkey’s intransigence and arrogance continues to blight the prospects of a solution.
• The cultural and religious heritage of the island is being systematically desecrated and defiled in the occupied areas.
• Turkish Cypriots are an isolated minority as a result of an orchestrated influx of Turkish mainlanders.
• More than 170,000 people are still refugees. Many of these refugees now live in the UK and are unable to return to their homes and properties in the occupied area.
• The historic town of Famagusta stands empty and under occupation, it is held prisoner by the Turkish army which refuses to allow the town’s legal inhabitants to return, a tragic symbol of Turkey’s intransigence.
• Turkey systematically breaches the territorial integrity protected by the Exclusive Economic Zone around the Republic of Cyprus, through public threats and by deploying vessels in areas where substantial hydrocarbon reserves have been discovered.
• More than 1000 Cypriots are still missing.

The Greek Cypriot Brotherhood calls on you to act in the interest of international law, human rights and justice by redoubling the efforts and the actions of your Government to deliver a free, united, independent Cyprus; a state free from guarantees and all Turkish troops, with a single sovereignty, a single citizenship and a single international personality, where the human rights of all Cypriots are respected, and refugees are allowed to return to their homes.

Yours sincerely,

Tony Yerolemou

President