Cyprus commemorates 43 years since the illegal declaration of the pseudo-state

November 15, 2026, marks the 43rd anniversary of the illegal and unilateral declaration of a 'state' in the occupied territories of the Republic of Cyprus by Turkey and the former Turkish Cypriot leadership. This event remains a central point of condemnation in the island's political discourse, with President Nikos Christodoulides, the Archbishop of Cyprus, and various political bodies issuing statements denouncing the act as a clear violation of international law and the sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus.

Global reaction to the 1983 declaration is governed by UN Security Council Resolutions 541 and 550, which explicitly characterize the secessionist act as legally invalid and call upon all states to refrain from recognizing or providing assistance to the entity. Despite persistent efforts by Ankara to promote a 'two-state' solution, the Republic of Cyprus, supported by Greece and the international community, rejects these claims and remains committed to a bizonal, bicommunal federation.

Looking ahead, President Christodoulides has emphasized the necessity of ending foreign military presence and has expressed hopes for positive developments in the upcoming tripartite conference under the UN Secretary-General, aiming to resume substantive negotiations toward a sustainable and fair reunification of the island.