**Minister Calls on Turkey to Cooperate Over the Missing**
In a poignant address at a memorial service for Christakis Minas, a victim of the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus, Deputy Migration Minister Nicholas Ioannides emphasized the urgent need for Turkey to collaborate in resolving the longstanding issue of missing persons from the conflict. Speaking on Sunday, Ioannides underscored that determining the fate of all missing individuals is not only a moral imperative but also a national obligation for the Cypriot state.
Ioannides stated, “Ascertaining the fate of all missing persons was, is and will remain the highest moral and national obligation of the state.” He called for Turkey to provide substantial cooperation in this matter, specifically urging access to the archives of the Turkish military, which he referred to as the "occupying army." The minister highlighted the necessity for Turkey to share all relevant information regarding burial sites and the movement of remains, which could aid in the identification and proper commemoration of those who have been lost.
The minister expressed deep concern over what he described as the concealment of information by Turkey, asserting that such actions not only prolong the suffering of the families of the missing but also represent an affront to the dignity of the deceased. “The concealment of information and the movement of relics are an insult to the dead,” Ioannides remarked, accusing Turkey of intentionally extending the pain experienced by the families seeking closure.
Ioannides also pointed to the international credibility that Cyprus has developed over the past three years as a significant asset in the ongoing struggle against Turkish occupation. He believes that this credibility can be leveraged to pressure Turkey into cooperating on the issue of missing persons, which remains a sensitive and critical topic in Cypriot society.
The memorial for Christakis Minas served as a reminder of the personal tragedies that have resulted from the conflict, with many families still seeking answers regarding the fate of their loved ones. The issue of missing persons has been a contentious and emotional aspect of the Cypriot narrative since the division of the island in 1974, following the Turkish invasion.
As the search for answers continues, the Cypriot government remains steadfast in its commitment to uncovering the truth about the missing, emphasizing the importance of cooperation from Turkey to achieve this goal. The call for transparency and access to military archives reflects a broader desire for reconciliation and justice for those affected by the conflict.
The issue of missing persons not only impacts the families directly involved but also resonates throughout the entire nation, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to address the historical grievances stemming from the division of Cyprus. The Cypriot government’s stance, as articulated by Ioannides, underscores the ongoing quest for acknowledgment, accountability, and ultimately, peace in the region.