Cyprus KOA: "Turkey's Political Gains Thwarted in Handball Match"

The president of the Cyprus Sports Organisation (KOA), Yiannos Ioannou, commented on the national handball team's trip to Turkey, emphasizing that sports can promote the Republic of Cyprus and prevent Turkish aims.

According to Mr. Ioannou, the Turkish side tried to create problems with visa issuance for the delegation's entry into Turkey, initially demanding personal appearance at the Turkish consulate in Athens and then online visa issuance with reference to the "Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus."

The Cypriot delegation eventually traveled via Athens and issued visas normally in Istanbul. Mr. Ioannou congratulated the president of the Cyprus Handball Federation, Konstantinos Filaretou, and KOA official Antigoni Tamba, for their handling of the matter.

The match took place in the city of Elazig, with Mr. Ioannou stressing that the victory is political and that sports are the best ambassador for Cyprus abroad.