The President of Cyprus, Nicos Anastasiades, aims to heal the wounds caused by the Turkish invasion, by laying solid foundations with the ultimate goal of reuniting the country, said the Minister of Transport Yiannis Karousos.

Speaking during a memorial service, the Minister also said that for the government of President Anastasiades, a lasting peace, security, ending the flow of settlers, protecting cultural and religious monuments, securing the well-being of people, restoring and safeguarding human rights and fundamental freedoms for all Cypriots, Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots, Maronites, Armenian and Latins are considered to be solid foundations.

Coexisting peacefully and returning to our occupied land is part of our unshakable vision, Karousos added.

The Minister also said that the government strives for a viable and functioning solution to the Cyprus problem, on the basis of UN resolutions, international law and EU principles.

A settlement should lead to the reunification of the territory, the people and the institutions of the state, in the framework of a bizonal bicommunal federation, he concluded.

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