I feel honoured and touched that I represent today the Hellenic Republic at this important moment of the celebration of the 53rd anniversary since our Cyprus’ independence, an independence which Cypriot people conquered with sacrifices, fights and blood.
A sacrifice that shows the way of our next steps. Greece and Cyprus move ahead together in a spirit of solidarity with only one purpose: to see this island unified again soon and all Cypriots celebrate their independence on a unified island.
The circumstances are difficult. Today, Greece and Cyprus face the same challenges. They will finally overcome them. And I would like to convey a message to Greek Cypriots: that at this difficult time they are not alone. Greece stands by them. Greece that fights its own struggle and will win.
We, Greeks, have proved that when we are all united we can achieve many great things and we must all realize it at this moment. And in a spirit of unity and togetherness, go through this difficult way and show our people again how to stare at a hopeful horizon. Cyprus has a special place in our hearts. It has, however, a special significance today with the volatility, the uncertainty and the risks of our region. It can prove that it is a stable and stability agent contributing to peace, cooperation and solidarity among all people. Greece supports it.
And today, we saw capable Greek young people of Cyprus march before us, determined to stand up against any new threat but to continue a long tradition of self-sacrifice and struggle as well. In this spirit I feel deep emotion too that I share this great moment with my Cypriot brothers.
President of the Republic of Cyprus, I wish you from my heart to be the President who will celebrate the unification of the island here, in the same place, next year and, then, the concept of independence itself will have a deeper meaning.
Today, on behalf of Greece, we salute our Cypriot brothers and we assure them that we will go through this difficult situation too together and we will succeed. We have lived much more difficult times in the past and we have proven that we have the power and the strength and the will to overcome difficulties.
Today a new hopeful horizon will open and we, all together, Greeks of Greece, Greeks of Cyprus and all the residents of the island will celebrate for it in a spirit of unity and solidarity.
Congratulations on the Independence Day.