Presidential Commissioner informs Ambassador of Finland about missing persons issue 23/3/2021 CNA - CYPRUS/Nicosia 

Presidential Commissioner Photis Photiou held a meeting on Tuesday with Ambassador of Finland Harri Maki-Reinikka, who underlined the support of his country in the efforts by the Republic of Cyprus as regards the humanitarian issue of the missing persons.

According to an official press release, the meeting took place in the framework of the Commissioner`s contacts with foreign officials whom he informs about the humanitarian issues in Cyprus as a result of the Turkish invasion and continuous occupation of part of Cyprus` territory.

Referring to the issue of missing persons, Photiou told the Ambassador that the perpetuation of the human suffering of the families of the missing is inhuman, unacceptable and violates fundamental principles and values ​​of civilized humanity and human rights.

Turkey, the Commissioner added, has political, moral and legal obligations and responsibilities which unfortunately does not assume or implement due to the tolerance shown by various countries and organizations that can ensure international law for the benefit of the victims and their families.

Photiou said that there is an urgent need for immediate initiatives and actions by organisations and governments to ensure the cooperation and assistance of the occupying power in the efforts to resolve the issue, as relatives of the missing pass away.

He expressed the gratitude of the government of Cyprus to the Ambassador for the support and assistance of his country so far, expressing the hope that this support will continue and  become more active.

The Ambassador underlined the support of his country in the efforts made by Cyprus to resolve the issue of the missing persons. 

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and occupied 37% of its territory. Since then, the fate of hundreds of people remains unknown.

A Committee on Missing Persons has been established, upon agreement between the leaders of the two communities, with the scope of exhuming, identifying and returning the remains of missing persons to their relatives.

CNA/AAR/GV/2021
ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY