Nicosia: Cyprus has decided to reintroduce an annual grant on a permanent basis to support the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Alexandria. Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos announced that the Cabinet has approved an allocation of £75,000 per year. When asked if this decision was in response to a request from the Patriarchate or the diaspora community, Minister Kombos explained that the grant had been provided in the past but was halted in 2013 due to an economic crisis.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Kombos emphasized that the Cabinet's decision to reinstate the grant reflects the significant role of the Patriarchate. He highlighted the Patriarchate of Alexandria's historical presence of over 2,000 years in Egypt and Africa, noting its importance in preserving the Orthodox faith and its missionary work. He also mentioned the Patriarchate's efforts in maintaining connections between Greeks abroad and their cultural heritage.
The Minister stated that this decision is part of Cyprus' "soft diplomacy" strategy, aligning with the nation's activities to support Cypriots living overseas. When questioned about the decision's connection to fostering cooperation with Eastern Mediterranean and Middle Eastern countries, Kombos indicated that it is part of broader prioritized actions in the region.
Kombos further clarified that the decision primarily aims to support religious and Christian minorities in the area and hinted at forthcoming announcements of a similar nature. Addressing whether this action is another step towards strengthening ties with Egypt, he affirmed the strategic nature of Cyprus-Egypt relations and reiterated that the support is offered with full respect for Egypt. He also mentioned the ongoing meeting of the Cyprus diaspora in Nicosia and the tripartite cooperation between Cyprus, Greece, and Egypt under the "Nostos" project, which promotes joint activities among expatriates from the three nations.