Greek Cypriots of Australia March for 40 Years of Turkish Invasion

The community of Greek Cypriots living in Australia has organised marches across the country to mark the 40 year anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus.

Greek Cypriots all over the world have never forgotten the Turkish invasion and occupation of their country in 1974. Forty years later, their wounds haven’t healed as Cyprus is still divided and part of it still occupied.

In 1974, more than a third of Cyprus’ population was forcibly removed from their homes while almost 300,000 Turkish settlers arrived to the island to colonise its northern part.

Greek homes and businesses were taken or damaged and a Turkish community was created in the Greek land. The illegal sale of property and land owned by Greek Cypriots still continues today.

Many of the Greek Cypriots who settled in Australia after the invasion have never returned to their homes. However. they never forget their country and starting this weekend and until next week, they will take to the streets to protest against the illegal occupation.

Cypriot organizations have organized protests in all major Australian cities with the Secretary of the Council of Ministers of Cyprus, Theodosis A. Tsiolas and the High Commissioner of Cyprus to Australia Ioanna Malliotis attending most events around the country.

Commemorative events started in Melbourne on Thursday. On Sunday, July 20 that marks the day of the invasion, Melbourne and Western Australia will host a church service, with WA continuing on to a wreath laying service while Cypriots of Melbourne will organize a march to the steps of Parliament. Adelaide, Brisbane and Sydney will host on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday respectively their own vigils.