John Christodoulou: I would give up all my wealth to take Cyprus back

John Christodoulou: I would give up all my wealth to take Cyprus back

Renowned property developer John Christodoulou gave an insightful and personal interview to The Sun newspaper on the somber occasion of the 50th anniversary of Turkey’s illegal invasion of Cyprus.
Mr Christodoulou, who fled Cyprus as a child during the 1974 invasion, recounts his harrowing experiences, the squatting of our homeland and the enduring impact of that tragic period.
The interview delves into his memories of the invasion, the challenges his family faced, and his reflections on the ongoing division of our island. His story is a poignant reminder of the resilience of those who lived through these events and the enduring hope for reunification.
“All of a sudden bombs are dropping. You’ve got the parachutes coming out of the big planes. And as a kid of 8 years old, you couldn’t believe what was going on,” he recalls.
“My mother pretty much pulled us towards the tree that we could take refuge. The house right next to where I lived was bombed, just next door. It is a day very hard to forget.”
He told the publication that his family had to shelter with 40 others in a small, cramped basement for a day.
“My father decided there is no security, no future, so he takes us to the UK.” John said. “People don’t know where their parents are, people don’t know where their kids are… the worst bit is not knowing. I know guys whose families were raped during this.”
He added: “I’d give everything up to give Cyprus back. Having to go back, I’ve been there three times, I try to overcome it, but I can’t, it’s difficult. To give back, I’ve worked with King Charles, Prince William, Queen Elizabeth, there is a lot of stuff I have done because of the gratitude, because the UK opened their arms when I came as a refugee. I know what it is like to leave your home and have nothing else. What made me the man I am today is going through the experience of a war and being insecure.”
Mr Christodoulou concluded: “I want all the refugees to be able to go back to their properties without the presence of Turkish troops. You just have to find a way, like anything.”
It is important to highlight the long-term relentless efforts of Mr Christodoulou to bring international awareness to the true history of Cyprus. He remains committed to making the truth known to the entire world and continues to advocate for the reunification and freedom for Cyprus.