Minister Damianos addresses the Cyprus issue at commemorative event in Paphos

On July 26, 2026, the Cypriot Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, Michalis Damianos, delivered a speech during the annual memorial service for Vice Admiral Eleftherios Chandrinos and the fallen commandos of 1974. The ceremony took place at the Holy Church of Saint Kendeas in Paphos, led by Metropolitan Gregorios of Paphos.

During his address, Minister Damianos identified Turkey's intransigence as the fundamental barrier to progress in the Cyprus problem. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Republic of Cyprus to the reunification of the island, strictly based on international law, United Nations Security Council resolutions, the agreed framework for a solution, and the foundational principles of the European Union. Despite the current diplomatic impasse, the minister emphasized that the government is actively utilizing every available diplomatic channel to facilitate the resumption of negotiations.

Regarding the path forward, the government highlights the increased involvement of the European Union, specifically noting the recent appointment of an EU Special Envoy for Cyprus. Furthermore, Minister Damianos expressed full support for the efforts of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to create the necessary conditions for meaningful talks, noting that the Secretary-General's visit to Cyprus underscores the urgency and significance of the ongoing diplomatic processes.