Varosha, Famagusta

The so-called “foreign ministry” of the pseudo-state, denounced the reports about Turkey included in the conclusions of the European Union’s General Affairs Council on 17 December, adding that linking Ankara’s issues to the Cyprus is “unacceptable”.

Turkish Cypriot President Ersin Tatar has stated that the long-term goal of his country is to reconstruct the once-abandoned area of Varosha in order to reintegrate it into the national economy.

The President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, referred to global and regional issues, stressing Cyprus’ commitment to international law, peace and diplomacy.

Turkish newspaper Sozcu has drawn attention to Varosha, an abandoned area in Famagusta, calling it the "Las Vegas of the Mediterranean." The paper says it would take $10 billion to bring the ghost town back to life after being abandoned for 50 years.

The American Hellenic Institute released a statement on Thursday to mark the 49th anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus and called for an end to the occupation.

AHI condemned proposals of a "two-state solution" for the island as well as Turkey's reopening of the beach at Varosha.

The Turkish Foreign Ministry has strongly criticized the recent statement by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), which proposed a federal solution to the long-standing Cyprus problem.

Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz has expressed a firm belief that Turkish Cyprus will gradually overcome the embargoes and embrace global connectivity.

His statement came during a joint press conference with Turkish Cypriot President Ersin Tatar on June 19, where the two leaders discussed economic cooperation and the future of the north side.

The allegation that three hotels in Turkish Cyprus' Varosha city have been sold to a Turkish businessman by their Greek owners has sparked concerns in the Greek administration as the sale or transfer of real estate in the area opened to civilian visits three years ago after a 46-year hiatus is under the control of a commission.

Some 530,000 people have visited the beaches of North Cyprus' Varosha in two years since it was opened after some 46 years, the daily Milliyet has reported.

"Varosha was opened to civilians in 2020. Vehicles are still not allowed to enter. One can wander inside the area on foot or bicycles," the daily highlighted.