Newsroom
Construction is moving forward on the Turkish side for a new crossing point in the Lympia-Louroujina area, with Turkish Cypriot officials urging Cypriot residents to pressure the government to open the barrier.
Ali Karavezirler, the so-called mayor of Kythrea-Louroujina, confirmed the progress, while Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar called on residents of Lympia and Athienou to push President Nikos Christodoulides to allow the crossing to open.
Speaking at a festival in Louroujina last Sunday, Tatar directly addressed President Christodoulides, asking, “What are you still waiting for? My people want this barrier open. Let the people of Lympia and Athienou put pressure on their president to make it happen.”
Tatar praised Louroujina as an important cultural hub and thanked locals for preserving their heritage.
RTC President Toufan Erhurman expressed hope that by this time next year, the crossing would be fully operational. He said the new crossing would boost tourism and culture, making Louroujina a key destination.
Karavezirler said opening the crossing was their top priority. He mentioned forwarding a formal request to government officials after Athienou’s mayor asked for a “viaduct” or border adjustment.
Karavezirler made clear that they reject border regulation efforts and want a proper gate to open instead of a barrier. He added that preparations like street lighting are in place, and paving work will begin soon to make the crossing ready.
The push for this crossing point highlights ongoing efforts from the Turkish Cypriot side to increase movement and connection between the two communities, while the final decision remains in the hands of the Republic of Cyprus government.
