During a recent visit, Duncan Smith, accompanied by the General Secretary of the National Unity Party, Oğuzhan Hasipoğlu, inspected the closed off Famagusta suburb of Maraş (Varosha). In his statement, Hasipoğlu emphasised the unacceptability of embargoes in the modern era.
Duncan Smith remarked, “This place was once vibrant. Now, it looks like a ghost town. Fifty years ago, this was a beautiful holiday destination; now it stands as a border town. I hope, as both sides desire, that an agreement will be reached, and a solution found under international law“.
He also expressed his support for initiating direct flights to the TRNC, highlighting the needs of many British citizens living in Cyprus who wish to visit their relatives both in Cyprus and in England. “I hope direct flights will start soon, allowing Turkish Cypriots to visit their families in England“, Duncan Smith stated.
Oğuzhan Hasipoğlu, the General Secretary of the National Unity Party and MP for Famagusta, expressed his gratitude for the support Sir Iain has shown for direct flights. He emphasised the importance of demonstrating adherence to international law in Maraş and thanked the British delegation for their respect towards the Turkish Cypriot people. He also noted, “It is a right for TRNC citizens to fly directly to the UK. Such an embargo is unacceptable today. Additionally, I congratulate Iain Duncan Smith on his re-election as a member of the UK Parliament”.
