Ceremony in Kyrenia Commemorates Limassol Martyrs
Commemoration ceremony organized in Kyrenia in honor of Turkish Cypriot resistance fighters
A solemn ceremony was held today in Kyrenia to honor the courageous efforts of Turkish Cypriots who resisted Greek attacks in Limassol 60 years ago. The event took place in front of the Limassol-Kyrenia Martyrs and Freedom Monument, where dignitaries, military personnel, and community representatives paid their respects to those who lost their lives during the resistance.
The ceremony began with the laying of wreaths at the monument, followed by a moment of silence, a salute of respect, and the hoisting of flags alongside the National Anthem. Students from the Girne American College recited poignant poems, adding a spiritual dimension to the proceedings.
Erbil Aydınova, President of the Kyrenia Branch of the Turkish Cypriot Resistance Organization Mujahideen Association, delivered a speech emphasizing the significance of the day. He paid tribute to the heroic resistance of the Turks of Limassol, which was led by Serdar Ziya Rızkı. Aydınova also underscored the continuing peace on the island for the past 50 years since the July 20 Peace Operation.
He urged the international community to uphold their promise to lift embargoes and isolations on Turkish Cypriots and called for fair and impartial action to resolve the Cyprus issue. Aydınova proposed a comprehensive new constitution to support the joint work and sharing of natural resources in the Mediterranean, with the involvement of all relevant stakeholders.
Deputy President and Speaker of the Assembly of the Republic, Zorlu Töre, expressed his disapproval of the “Berlin analogy” and emphasized that there are two distinct peoples on the island, Turkish and Hellenic. Töre also criticized the world’s attempts to perpetuate the Cyprus issue despite the passing of 50 years since the 1974 Happy Peace Operation and 60 years since the Limassol Resistance.
Addressing the claims of property loss on both sides, Töre reminded that Turkish Cypriots had left their goods in the South as they were not safe. He highlighted the enduring desire of Greek Cypriot-Greek unity and vowed that the Turkish army would remain on the island.
Töre also pointed out the lack of intervention by the international community in humanitarian crises such as in Palestine and expressed solidarity with the people affected by these tragic events.
The ceremony concluded with Töre’s closing remarks, where he prayed for the souls of the martyrs and wished long life to the veterans. The commemoration served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Turkish Cypriots and their unwavering commitment to their homeland.
