Proposer: Dino Philippos
Seconder: Alexandros Schulman
The Workers Party of Britain notes that: all UNSC resolutions since the invasion of Cyprus by Turkey in 1974 that demand the Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity of the Republic of Cyprus to be reinstated by the withdrawal of all foreign military forces and full de-militarisation of the island that will allow the right of return of all refugees to their homes have not been implemented.
The Workers Party of Britain further notes: the promise to resolve the Cyprus problem within the framework of the E.U through the accession of Cyprus to the E.U has proved to be a fake deception now evidenced by the de-facto incorporation of Cyprus into the NATO sphere brazenly demonstrated by the direct participation of the RAF and NATO forces in the Gaza genocide from the so-called British ‘sovereign”bases in Cyprus. Under E.U law, these bases should have been returned to Cyprus before Brexit. For 50 years, the United Nations have resolved that Cyprus must be de-militarised to ensure Peace and Security. The militarisation of Cyprus can only lead to further regional conflict and escalates further tensions led by the NATO desire for another world war.
The Workers Party resolves to campaign in support of the U.N resolutions on Cyprus and to demand the return of the British military bases to the people of Cyprus as well as de-coupling the recent neo-colonial alignment of Cyprus with British foreign policy objectives in the region.
The Workers Party of Britain rejects the “Double Union” of Cyprus with NATO and seeks to raise awareness by a series of nationwide community events through our local branches and No 2 NATO to raise public awareness on Cyprus and the role of the British bases. This motion if carried will contribute to the growth of membership both for the Party and for our NO 2 NATO platform.
Well written and much needed motion. Thank you for raising such an important issue.
This is an example of the sort of foreign policy motion that is relevant to the Party because it relates directly to the conduct of the British Government and demands (not requests) that it operate according to our socialist and anti-imperialist values (rather than general universalist liberal or progressive) values that we all share. Although I hope we are not distracted too much into foreign policy questions of only limited interest to the British electorate, this motion deserves our general support and it is true that it adds to the armoury of the No2NATO campaign.
I agree with this motion. It reflects the parties principles of anti-imperialism and solidarity with oppressed peoples. I believe this campaign will not only benefit the people of Cyprus but also strengthen our party and the No 2 NATO movement.”
We should not be taking sides between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots. Note that the Turkish invasion was a response to an extremist takeover by right-wing Greek Cypriots. And the Turkish Cypriots had not been treated fairly.
And have taken more than their share. But we should not be taking sides.
And regardless of rights and wrongs, the situation could not be changed without a major war, which Greece lacks the power and which no one else is going to help with. The Turkish Republic has all along been too strong and also too valued as a potential ally.
Removing the base might be a good idea, assuming Cypriots want it. Or regardless, because we have no need for it.
Of course the US establishment would never allow a demilitarisation of Cyprus. The UN are powerless in the face of US foreign policy. But it’s a good idea.