Kornelios Korneliou, the Permanent Representative of Cyprus to the UN, referred to the impact of the 1974 Turkish invasion on the human rights and basic liberties of the Cypriot people. He was addressing Friday the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly, in a discussion regarding the “protection and promotion of human rights.”

Korneliou noted that one third of Greek Cypriots continue to be displaced in their own country, deprived of their rights to live and enjoy their homes and properties, while witnessing their properties’ illegal exploitation by Turkey.

Turkey continues to systematically colonize the Turkish-occupied areas of Cyprus, aiming to alter the demographics, in flagrant violation of the Geneva Conventions and international law.

Concerning the issue of missing persons, Korneliou called again on Turkey to grant unlimited access to all areas with possible burial places, as well as to its archives.

He also spoke of a continuous intentional destruction of the religious and cultural heritage in the Turkish-occupied part of Cyprus since 1974, while cultural and religious treasures are being looted.

The Permanent Representative also expressed concern over human rights in Turkey, noting that the Republic of Cyprus continues to monitor the situation. Furthermore, he underlined the need to respect democratic values, in full conformity with international law and human rights.

Korneliou pledged finally Cyprus’ commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all the Cypriot people.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.