President of the House of Representatives Demetris Syllouris has said the House has expressed its support to the refugees of all nationalities and once again deplores the violation by Turkey of the right of Cypriot refugees to return to their homes.

Addressing the House plenary on the occasion of the World Refugee Day, honoured on June 20, Syllouris referred to the 200,000 Cypriots who were displaced during the 1974 Turkish invasion of the island.

He also said that “on June 20 we also honour the courage of millions of people who were forced to abandon their homes and live as refugees or displaced persons, due to wars or persecution because of their origin, religion, or political views.”

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led talks have not led to a comprehensive settlement to reunite the country under a federal roof.

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