Turkish Cypriots celebrate anniversary of breakaway state

Turkish Cypriots in the north of the divided island celebrated independence today, while Greek Cypriots protested in the internationally-recognised south.

The island’s northern third unilaterally declared independence on November 15, 1983, but only Turkey recognises the breakaway Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

In the capital Nicosia, Cyprus government spokesman Kypros Chrysostomides said Turkish efforts to “amputate Cyprus” would not succeed.

Just a few miles north, Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat took the salute at a military parade.

An aerial display by the Turkish air force was planned later today in the coastal town of Kyrenia.

Talat said Turkish Cypriots would not compromise over their “legal rights”.

About 600 students waving Cypriot and Greek flags gathered in Nicosia’s Eleftherias (Freedom) Square for a concert.

“Our aim is not partition. We want the reunification of Cyprus,” said Sotiris Xenofontos, a student union spokesman.