Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the opportunity to present a number of petitions to the House today.
The first petition draws the attention of the House to the ongoing illegal occupation of Cyprus by the Turkish military.
Petitioners highlight that the Turkish military invasion in 1974 was illegal and brutal, resulting in the ongoing occupation of 37% of the island and 57% of its coastline; that the occupation led to significant human rights violations, including loss of life, mass displacement, the ongoing presence of military forces on the island and illegal settlements; and that the people of Cyprus, as well as the diaspora here and around the world, continue to be concerned about this issue. Cyprus's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity must be respected.
Further, petitioners note that the United Nations Security Council has passed multiple resolutions calling for the withdrawal of Turkish troops and settlers and the reunification of Cyprus based on respect for fundamental human rights and the freedom of all Cypriots. The occupation has impacted many other communities, and other communities that have been impacted by human rights violations committed by the Turkish state continue to be concerned about these issues as well.
The petitioners want the UN Security Council resolutions on Cyprus upheld. They want the government to condemn the illegal occupation, advocate for the immediate withdrawal of Turkish troops from Cyprus and ensure that no Canadian arms, military equipment or technology is sold to Turkey for use against Cyprus or other oppressed groups. They want the Government of Canada and parliamentarians to advocate for a free, united Cyprus based on relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the European Union's statements in this regard.