Cypriot Interior Minister Closes the Chapter on Barbed Wire in the Buffer Zone

In his recent statement to the Cypriot parliament about the ministry's budget, Yoannu responded to inquiries about the barbed wire installation, stating, "The barbed wire issue is now closed for us." The newspaper Fileleftheros reported extensively on Yoannu's comments, suggesting that the expensive barbed wire installations in the buffer zone, intended to deter illegal migrants, have been deemed ineffective.

According to the report, Yoannu highlighted a significant reduction of nearly 50% in the number of migrants and an increase of over 50% in deportations due to the measures implemented in recent months until October. He emphasized a 75% decrease in asylum applications from individuals of African origin. Regarding those from Syria, Yoannu mentioned sending letters to EU counterparts to reconsider certain regions in Syria for reassessment.

Yoannu also touched upon the issue of the use of Turkish Cypriot immovable properties in South Cyprus, noting that changes in laws governing the use of these properties have led to more effective controls. He stated that, so far, checks on properties used as businesses have revealed a 10% contract violation.

Source: TAK