The latest episode of BBC Radio 4's 'Crossing Continents' radio series, broadcast on Tuesday, was dedicated to the past, but mainly to the present and future of Varosians.
The journalist of Greek origin Maria Margaroni visited the occupied Famagusta and spoke with Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots who come from or are connected to Varosia.
They spoke about the pain of the invasion and the refugee, about the efforts and hope for reunification of the previous decades and finally about the disappointment and challenges created by the most recent developments with the opening by the Turkish side of its coastal front area.
The journalist and the citizens speaking describe the condition of the buildings before and after the invasion. Others express a desire to continue negotiations on the reunification and return of refugees, others express the opposite view.
A Turkish Cypriot “MP” blames the deadlock on the Greek Cypriots, with the journalist pointing out that the opening of Varossia by the Turkish side is against the resolutions of the United Nations. The same “Member of Parliament” warns regarding Varosia that for any Greek Cypriot properties that are not submitted for compensation, then when hotels start operating in the area they will be “expropriated” so that there are no dilapidated buildings next to the tourist resorts.
“While Varosia was closed, it was a place for dreams… but now that they are open, time is running out,” comments the presenter.
[Listen to the audio HERE.]
