The  people of Cyprus  want a solution that will terminate the Turkish occupation and not just any solution, President of the House of Representatives Yiannakis Omirou has said.

Speaking on Monday during visits to army camps on the occasion of Christmas and New Year, Omirou said that we want a solution the soonest, but one that will end the Turkish occupation,  safeguard human rights, terminate the 1960 guarantees and not provide for permanent derogations from the EU acquis communautaire.

Omirou also pointed out that those who express optimism for a quick solution must be urged to exert their pressure on Ankara.

He said that both the international and European community need a solution that will provide security, stability, peace and cooperation.

Omirou also praised the role of the National Guard for safeguarding the sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus.

Cyprus has been divided since the 1974 Turkish invasion and occupation of one third of its territory. UN backed negotiations are underway with the aim to reunite the island under a federal roof.