Nicosia: Greece remains Cyprus’ most valuable ally and support, and the two countries will continue to move forward together based on shared principles to defend the rights of Hellenism, House President Annita Demetriou said during a meeting with Greece’s Deputy Foreign Minister Ioannis Loverdos at the House of Representatives. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the World Conference of Cypriots in the Diaspora in Nicosia.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Demetriou stressed that Cyprus has been living with the consequences of the Turkish invasion and occupation for 51 years and highlighted the need for a united front to ensure the survival of the Cypriot Hellenism amid increasing Turkish provocations. She expressed concern over the five Greek Cypriots currently detained illegally in the Turkish occupied areas and referred to d©marches she made to the President of the European Parliament and the head of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, seeking their assistance for the immediate release of the detainees.
On his part, Loverdos reiterated that the Cyprus issue remains a top priority for Hellenism worldwide, noting that his presence in Cyprus sends a clear message of unity, solidarity, and a common struggle for justice for Cyprus, based on international law, relevant UN resolutions, and EU principles and values. He stressed the need to frame the Cyprus issue correctly, as a problem of invasion and ongoing occupation.
Demetriou and Loverdos also acknowledged the significant role of distinguished members of the Cypriot diaspora abroad and stressed the need for a modern approach to diaspora issues, especially concerning younger generations. Views were also exchanged on broader regional developments and growing challenges to democracy.