Despite previous statements to the contrary, Cyprus has begun issuing passports to children of mixed marriages.
The initiative was backed by Nicos Christodoulides, who said the measure would increase trust between the southern and northern parts of the island's population.
It was recently announced that a total of 14 such applications have been approved so far. More than 3.5 thousand people want to become full citizens of Cyprus.
It should be remembered that about 36% of the island's territory is occupied by the Turkish armed forces (in this area is located the so-called Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) - a state recognised only by Turkey).
The Republic of Cyprus' policy of denying citizenship to children of mixed marriages in the north of the island has affected thousands of Turkish Cypriots. Moreover, the division of the island has always been the main factor determining the policy of the Republic of Cyprus.
It is worth noting that in addition to the government's position on granting citizenship to children of mixed marriages, local officials have for several years been promoting a bill that aims to deny and revoke the citizenship of the Republic of Cyprus to persons who recognise the legitimacy of the existence of the TRNC.
According to the text of the document drafted by DIKO and EDEK MPs, when applying for citizenship of the Republic of Cyprus, applicants will have to sign a certificate stating that they do not recognise the regime in the occupied north of the island, do not hold positions in its administration and do not own land belonging to Greek Cypriots.
The two parties mentioned above believe that this innovation will help to combat the phenomenon of Turkish Cypriots obtaining passports of the Republic of Cyprus, enjoying the rights conferred by citizenship but failing to fulfil the obligations imposed on them.
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