The town of Varosha should be returned to its legal citizens within the right framework, Mayor of Turkish occupied Famagusta Alexis Galanos and Turkish Cypriot so-called mayor of Famagusta Oktay Kayal said on Sunday.

Speaking after a liturgy at the church of St George in Famagusta, Galanos said efforts were being made to return the town to its legal citizens, adding that the Turkish Cypriots wanted that too.

Galanos noted that the return of Famagusta could prove to be a catalyst in future developments, adding that one should be positive and move forward.

Asked about the violation of the territorial waters of the Republic of Cyprus in block 3 of its exclusive economic zone by Turkish vessel “Barbaros”, Galanos said time would show if Turkey really wanted a solution of the Cyprus problem.

In statements, Kayal said “Famagusta has to be returned to its legal owners,” noting that, “if Famagusta is returned to its legal owners, it should be a contribution to the comprehensive solution of the Cyprus problem.”

Regarding Turkish ship “Barbaros”, Kayal said he did not have adequate information about its mission, noting that the natural gas in the exclusive economic zone of the Republic of Cyprus should be used in the benefit of both communities and also as an incentive for the solution of the Cyprus problem.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third.