The World Hellenic Inter-Parliamentary Association (WHIA) mourns the 50-year Turkish occupation of Cyprus, standing in solidarity with the island nation for justice and reunification. Delegates from around the world, including USA, Canada, South Africa, Australia, and Ukraine, are advocating for legislative change and international dialogue to secure a peaceful future for Cyprus.
What is the World Hellenic Inter-Parliamentary Association’s stance on the 50-year occupation of Cyprus?
The World Hellenic Inter-Parliamentary Association (WHIA) stands in solidarity with Cyprus against the 50-year Turkish occupation, advocating for justice and resolution. Members from around the world are seeking legislative change, condemning the invasion, supporting reunification, and emphasizing the need for international dialogue to secure a peaceful future for Cyprus.
A United Front Against Occupation
Members of the World Hellenic Inter-Parliamentary Association (WHIA) stand together with the Republic of Cyprus as they seek closure and a just resolution to the ongoing Turkish occupation. As they gather on the island to commemorate a somber anniversary — half a century since the Turkish invasion — there’s a sense of solidarity among the delegates, tracing their roots back to Greece and Cyprus, representing countries far and wide, including the USA, Canada, South Africa, Australia, and Ukraine.
During the assembly, esteemed officials laid bare their strategies to bring the Cyprus issue to the forefront in their respective legislative houses. Their calls to action echo the profound need to strengthen ties with Cyprus, fostering a network of support that transcends borders. The WHIA president, Leonidas Raptakis, underscored a unified vision for the future of Cyprus. His words, “We are united for the future of Cyprus,” resonate with the urgency of advocating for the island nation at every international juncture.
Advocacy Across Continents
In the quest to bring an end to the five-decade occupation, WHIA members are not only voicing their concerns but are actively seeking legislative change within their nations. The Canadian Parliament, for instance, has passed a resolution condemning the Turkish invasion. This resolution, a testament to international support, is to be presented to President Nikos Christodoulides, symbolizing a global acknowledgment of the need for resolution.
Figures like Nevada Lieutenant Governor Stavros Anthony, with personal ties to Cyprus, highlight the plights of refugees — a generation displaced, their ties to their properties severed by the occupation. Their stories are a poignant reminder of the human cost of the conflict. New York State Representative Michael Tannousis, himself a child of refugees, lends a voice to the Cypriot people’s struggle, emphasizing support for the Cypriot government’s pursuit of justice.
Path to Reconciliation and Peace
The Cyprus issue has resonated in the Australian Parliament as well, where MPs like Steve Georganas have condemned the division of the EU member state and advocated for the families of missing persons. Across the ocean, in the United States, elected officials of Greek and Cypriot descent are determined to support Cyprus in its pursuit of a solution, as stated by Wyoming Senator Stephen Pappas and Connecticut State Representative Nicole Klarides, who emphasize the need for dialogue.
Ontario’s Aris Babikian stands with those advocating for the island’s reunification and just compensation for refugees. Canadian MP Annie Koutrakis joins her voice with those opposing the occupation. Meanwhile, Gregory Nemyria of Ukraine’s Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs draws parallels to the dire situations both Ukraine and Cyprus face, shedding light on the repercussions of unresolved conflicts.
As the WHIA delegation engages with key Cypriot figures, including Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos and Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas, their collective resolve is palpable. The anticipated meeting with Nikos Christodoulides promises to be a step further towards solidarity and action.
In uniting their voices, the members of the World Hellenic Inter-Parliamentary Association send a powerful message: the sorrow of the past is acknowledged, but the focus remains steadfast on securing a peaceful, sovereign future for Cyprus.
How is the World Hellenic Inter-Parliamentary Association supporting Cyprus in the face of the 50-year occupation?
The WHIA is standing in solidarity with Cyprus, advocating for legislative change, condemning the Turkish invasion, supporting reunification, and emphasizing the need for international dialogue to secure a peaceful future for Cyprus.
What actions have been taken by WHIA members from different countries to address the occupation of Cyprus?
Members from countries such as the USA, Canada, South Africa, Australia, and Ukraine have been actively seeking legislative change within their nations. For example, the Canadian Parliament passed a resolution condemning the Turkish invasion and showing global support for Cyprus.
How are personal stories and experiences impacting the advocacy efforts of WHIA members?
Personal ties to Cyprus, like those of Nevada Lieutenant Governor Stavros Anthony and New York State Representative Michael Tannousis, highlight the human cost of the conflict, with a focus on refugees and the need for justice.
What is the long-term vision of the World Hellenic Inter-Parliamentary Association for Cyprus?
The WHIA envisions a future of unity and peace for Cyprus, advocating for reunification, just compensation for refugees, and continued international dialogue to bring an end to the occupation and secure a sovereign future for the island nation.
