Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in the USA

Cyprus gained its independence from British colonial rule in 1960. In 1974 Turkey invaded Cyprus and occupied 36,2% of its sovereign territory. A ceasefire line still runs across the island and cuts through the heart of the capital, Lefkosia, dividing the city and the country. Although its northern part is under foreign occupation, the Republic of Cyprus is internationally recognised as the sole legitimate state on the island with sovereignty over its entire territory, including the areas occupied by Turkey.