The deputy minister of culture on Wednesday called for the immediate withdrawal of a publication linked to the country’s participation in the ongoing 19th International Architecture Biennale in Venice, citing serious concerns over its content and approval process.

In a strongly worded written statement, Vasiliki Kassianidou said the publication had never received official approval and includes “problematic references”, which she firmly rejected.

“I state categorically, both as an individual and as deputy minister, that I strongly disagree with these references,” Kassianidou said.

“For this reason, I have requested a full report from the curatorial team and the department of contemporary culture.”

The book, written in the Cypriot dialect, details events of the 1974 Turkish invasion.

The architecture biennale is one of the most important global cultural events, and the deputy minister emphasised the importance of how Cyprus is represented abroad.

She underlined that the ministry places great weight on cultural diplomacy and national participation in international exhibitions.

“A complete review of the state’s participation will follow once the exhibition ends,” she said, “so that it can be fully evaluated.”

While making it clear that the ministry does not interfere with artistic expression, Kassianidou said its role is to ensure transparent and correct procedures, especially in matters involving official state representation.

“We are now moving ahead with the necessary organisational changes to guarantee transparency, accountability, and proper representation of the country,” she added.

The deputy minister also noted that issues such as the failure to use the republic’s official languages in the publication and the overall image of Cyprus at international events are being addressed through corrective actions.