Speaking before the Plenary Session of the Hellenic Parliament on Thursday, May 14, 2026, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides delivered a powerful address marked by sharp criticism of Turkey and a strong affirmation of the historic ties between Greece and Cyprus. His appearance carried exceptional political and national symbolism.
A Warm Welcome in Athens
Christodoulides was greeted with enthusiastic applause upon entering the chamber. He was formally welcomed by Greek Parliament Speaker Nikitas Kaklamanis and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Among those present were Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, Archbishop of Athens, former Presidents of the Hellenic Republic, former prime ministers, former parliamentary speakers, European Commissioners, and heads of foreign diplomatic missions.
Honouring Greek Solidarity
In his speech, Christodoulides paid tribute to Greeks who stood by Cyprus during its most critical moments — notably in 1963 and 1974. “We bow before the heroic Greek officers, soldiers, and civilians who answered with a thunderous ‘present’”, he said, noting they gave “everything they had — and even what they did not have” to thwart Turkey’s partitionist plans.
Accountability for Occupation and Missing Persons
The President underscored the ongoing reality of Turkey’s military occupation and the unresolved fate of thousands of missing persons. He described it as an open crime, stating: “Freedom remains — even today — our greatest stake.” He held Turkey directly accountable for the continued disappearance of thousands of civilians and conscripts.
‘Our Dream Is to Live Freely’
Christodoulides emphasized that “our dream is to live freely, like all European citizens,” accusing Turkey of having trampled every principle of justice. “With the mandate of liberating and reunifying our homeland, we work tirelessly toward a solution to the Cyprus issue,” he said, adding that EU law can serve as a catalyst for resolution.
Cyprus Is Not Alone
He stressed that Cyprus does not face this challenge alone. “We do not feel isolated. First and foremost, we have the support of Greece — our most steadfast and selfless ally,” he affirmed, expressing Nicosia’s deep gratitude for Athens’ unwavering solidarity. He also highlighted the importance of European Union backing, citing its formal joint letter of support.
‘The Two-State Solution Does Not Exist — Not Even as a Thought’
In a firm and unambiguous statement, Christodoulides declared: “The two-state solution does not exist — not even as a thought.” His remarks reaffirmed Cyprus’s commitment to a bizonal, bicommunal federation within a united, sovereign, and independent state — fully aligned with UN resolutions and EU principles.