OPINION

February 21, 1959

KARAMANLIS ON CYPRUS INDEPENDENCE: As soon as Prime Minister Constantine Karamanlis returned to Athens yesterday from his trip to London for talks on Cyprus, he made the following statement on Greek radio: «A few months ago, an end to British rule in Cyprus appeared, if not impossible, something that would not occur for a very long time, after many struggles and sacrifices. Nevertheless, thanks to the spirit of understanding shown by the British government, an agreement was signed in London yesterday ending British rule throughout Cyprus apart from two military bases. Now the procedure for setting up the Republic of Cyprus begins, with full respect for all democratic principles and with institutions in which the Greek majority will play the main role and the smaller Turkish community will have a full guarantee of their rights and a reasonable part in the administration. The two communities’ centuries of peaceful coexistence was only disturbed recently and for a short time. The spirit of understanding their leaders showed in London convince me that cooperation with them will be harmonious and fruitful.»

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