Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç released a message on the 50th anniversary of liberation of Famagusta city. The said message reads as follows:
“Famagusta, home to our university, stands out as one of the key cities in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, especially due to its historical and cultural significance.
Fifty years ago, in the second phase of the 1974 Peace Operation, the Turkish Cypriot people courageously fought to free Famagusta, known as Gazimağusa in Turkish, risking their lives in the process. The freedom struggle that began in Erenköy culminated in Famagusta following the 20 July Peace Operation. The city saw a remarkable resistance effort that blocked Greek forces from entering Turkish-held areas, and Famagusta was liberated through the combined efforts of Turkish soldiers. Renamed Gazimağusa in 1980, the city has since flourished, becoming a gem of our nation with its rich historical and cultural heritage and its breathtakingly beautiful coastlines, further enhanced by the presence of Eastern Mediterranean University.
I am certain that our city will gain even greater significance both regionally and internationally in the future. As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Famagusta’s liberation, the culmination of our struggle for survival in Cyprus, I offer my sincere wishes and, I honor with deep gratitude and respect those who gave their lives for our country, and I extend my heartfelt salute to our veterans.”