Refugees from the occupied town of Ayios Amvrosios and other towns and villages in Cyprus that are currently under Turkish military occupation, are planning to cross the United Nations patrolled buffer zone on 9 December 2001. This will take place at the Mia Milia point in Nicosia. The refugee’s aims are to return to their homes.

Lobby for Cyprus stated that amongst the returning refugees will be a number of British citizens travelling from the UK to join with their compatriots in their attempt to return and reclaim their stolen homes. A letter has been sent to Prime Minister Tony Blair and all MPs calling on the British government to facilitate their safe return to their homes and properties in the occupied area of Cyprus.

The Turkish invasion of Cyprus in July 1974, resulting in the occupation of northern 37% of the Republic’s territory also caused the forcible removal of 200,000 Greek Cypriots from their homes and properties. Included amongst them were the 3,000 inhabitants of the town of Ayios Amvrosios in the Kyrenia district.

Lobby for Cyprus member organisations:
Ayios Amvrosios UK • Akanthou • Lapithos & Karavas • Famagusta • Lefkoniko • Leonarisso & Vasili • Mandres • Rizokarpasso • Yialoussa-Ayia Triada-Melanarka