British MPs demand that Turkey works sincerely for the reunification of Cyprus

Page last updated at 04:00 GMT, Tuesday, July 26, 2011 - 09:00 EST

CNA - British MPs have urged British Prime Minister David Cameron "to demand unequivocally" that Turkey works sincerely for the reunification of Cyprus and that it fulfils its obligations to the EU in relation to Cyprus.

In a letter to the Prime Minister, British MPs note "the clear and irrefutable responsibilities that the British government holds with regard to Cyprus" and urge the British PM to use Britains diplomatic leverage with the USA and through the UN, the EU and NATO to press Turkey "to end its unacceptable military occupation of Cyprus and the islands unlawful and unjust division."

"To that end, and as a first step in that direction, we, the undersigned, call upon you to extend an urgent invitation to Cyprus President Demetris Christofias to meet with you, in an official capacity, so that he can inform you on the latest political developments regarding Cyprus and so that you can explore with him ways in which the United Kingdom can actively contribute to efforts to bring to an end this continuing injustice," they add.

In their letter, they point out that nearly four decades after the illegal invasion of Cyprus, Turkish troops continue to occupy approximately 38% of the islands territory.

For 37 years, the world has condemned the occupation and Turkeys intransigence in efforts to find a solution to reunite Cyprus, they note, adding that during the same period, British troops have been engaged in conflicts around the world, fighting injustice, protecting British sovereignty and safeguarding or seeking to deliver democracy.