TurkishCypriots aggressively sought to dominate the newly independent state of Cyprus. While Cyprus 1960 constitution provided for powersharing between the Greek and TurkishCypriot communities. the TurkishCypriot community. which constituted 18% of the islands population. gained veto powers over legislation and became entitled to a disproportionate share of governmental posts. Mr. Speaker. on July 20. 1974. Turkey invaded Cyprus and declared victory by securing 37% of the islands territory. This unilateral military action led to the flight of thousands of refugees from their ancestral homeland. To this day. over 35.000 Turkish troops remain on Cyprus. That is 35.000 too many troops.
Keywords matched
refugees