**Letymbiotis Hails ‘Return to Substance of Cyprus Problem’ at Memorial Service**
In a poignant address during a memorial service on Sunday, Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis emphasized a renewed focus on the core issues surrounding the Cyprus problem. The service, held in Letymbou, Paphos district, commemorated five local men who sacrificed their lives for the Greek Cypriot cause between the 1930s and 1970s.
Letymbiotis described the sacrifices made by these individuals as a “wake-up call” and a “compass of unity” for the Greek Cypriot community. He urged the public to defend their history, dignity, and legal rights with determination, asserting that freedom and justice necessitate national unity and a clear strategic plan.
“The Greek Cypriot side is following this path with a plan, consistency, and political will,” Letymbiotis stated, highlighting the administration of President Nikos Christodoulides. Since taking office in 2023, Christodoulides has prioritized the resumption of negotiations regarding the Cyprus issue, according to Letymbiotis.
The spokesman pointed to tangible outcomes from this renewed diplomatic effort, including the appointment of Maria Angela Holguin as the United Nations’ envoy for the Cyprus problem. He also noted the convening of significant meetings in Geneva and New York last year, alongside UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ visit to Cyprus in the previous month.
Letymbiotis underscored Guterres’ announcement of another enlarged meeting to be held after achieving adequate progress on confidence-building measures as a significant step toward addressing the substance of the Cyprus problem. He expressed optimism that this new momentum carries a clear political direction and is grounded in established frameworks, including Security Council resolutions and previous agreements reached during negotiations, notably the Crans-Montana talks in 2017.
He reiterated that “time does not legitimise the faits accomplis of the invasion, nor will it conceal the pursuit of partition,” emphasizing the need for a robust response to these challenges. In this context, Letymbiotis mentioned the European Union's role as an active participant in the UN-led efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue. He pointed out that recent European Council conclusions have established a clear connection between Turkey’s relations with the EU and progress on the Cyprus problem.
Letymbiotis asserted that “European prospects and the perpetuation of the occupation are politically incompatible” for Turkey. He stressed that any aspirations for enhanced relations with the EU must be accompanied by respect for international and European law, particularly regarding Cyprus, which is a full member of the EU.
In addition to diplomatic efforts, Letymbiotis highlighted the importance of strengthening the Republic of Cyprus in various domains, including economically and defensively. He argued that bolstering the nation would enhance its negotiating power and lay the groundwork for an active foreign policy.
The spokesman reiterated the Greek Cypriot side’s commitment to a peaceful resolution, stating, “The goal remains unchanged: a free and reunified Cyprus, without occupying troops, anachronistic guarantees, and intervention rights.” He envisioned a post-solution Cyprus as a “functional and viable European state” that serves as a common homeland for all its legal inhabitants.
Letymbiotis' remarks reflect a broader commitment from the Greek Cypriot leadership to engage in constructive dialogue and seek a resolution to the longstanding division of the island, while also honoring the legacy of those who fought for their cause. The memorial service served as a reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of unity and the ongoing efforts to address the complexities of the Cyprus problem.