Following the tabling of EDM 63709 in the UK Parliament, calling for direct flights to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides was questioned on the issue in an interview with Cyprus Mail.

His response avoided any mention of the 2004 Annan Plan referendum, where Turkish Cypriots overwhelmingly voted Yes to reunification while Greek Cypriots voted No — after which the UK, EU, and international community promised to end Turkish Cypriot isolation through direct trade and travel.

Instead, Christodoulides stated:

“The international community… has repeatedly taken a position on these issues. Especially Britain, which is a guarantor power and a member of the United Nations Security Council.”

The comments come as pressure builds on the UK Government to finally deliver on its commitment to Turkish Cypriots, 20 years after the failed reunification vote.