Council of British Cypriots members urge Starmer to take active role in Cyprus settlement

Marking the 51st anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, members of the Council of British Cypriots have delivered five formal letters to the British Prime Minister, urging the United Kingdom to take an active role in supporting a lasting and just solution to the Cyprus issue.

The initiative comes ahead of a high-level meeting set to take place in New York, where the future of Cyprus is expected to be on the agenda.

The letters were hand-delivered by prominent members of the British Cypriot community, including veteran photojournalist Doros Partasides; Marie Nicholsby of the charity Alkionides UK; Spyros Neophytou; Stella Dinenis; Spyros Papacharalambous; and Elias Dimemo. Together, they represent a diverse cross-section of Cypriot voices in the United Kingdom committed to peace, justice, and human rights.

Each letter addresses key concerns surrounding the ongoing division of Cyprus and broader regional issues. Among the topics raised are the continued violations of human rights and fundamental freedoms on the island, as well as the geopolitical challenges in the Eastern Mediterranean. The letters emphasize the need for regional stability, enhanced cooperation, energy security, and the adherence to international law.

Special attention is given to the ongoing situation in Famagusta (Varosha), a once-thriving city that remains under Turkish military occupation. The letters call for the immediate return of the city to its rightful and lawful inhabitants, in accordance with United Nations resolutions.

The delegation also highlighted the humanitarian work of Alkionides UK, a charitable organization that supports Cypriot patients and vulnerable families living in or traveling to the UK for medical care. The group’s contribution underscores the strength and solidarity of the Cypriot diaspora in Britain.

As diplomatic efforts continue, the Council of British Cypriots hopes the UK government will use its influence—both as a guarantor power and a permanent member of the UN Security Council—to support a resolution that upholds international law and ensures the reunification of Cyprus.

(Source: CNA)