Kadis: The European Union continues to be a space of democracy, freedom and protection of the rights of its citizens, while at the same time seeking to strengthen resilience, social cohesion and sustainable development, EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis, has said. In his address at the Europe Day event held Saturday, May 9, at the Finikoudes Beach in Larnaca, Kadis said that the event reflected, 'in a very beautiful way, the true meaning of the European Union through co-operation, culture and the participation of citizens, particularly young people. Music, art and creativity underline that the Union is not only about institutions and policies, but above all a community of people and shared values.'
According to Cyprus News Agency, Kadis emphasized that Europe Day serves as a reminder of the common path followed by the peoples of Europe after periods of war, division, and major challenges. European integration, he said, was founded on the belief that democracy and solidarity are the most stable foundations for peace, stability, and progress. In today's international environment of increased uncertainty, this message remains particularly relevant. The European Union continues to be a space for democracy, freedom, and protection of the rights of its citizens, while simultaneously working to strengthen resilience, social cohesion, and sustainable development.
Kadis noted that the continuation of the positive European outlook is a collective endeavor requiring constant effort, co-operation, and trust in shared values. He stressed that the participation of citizens, especially young people, in events like Europe Day is of particular importance. He congratulated the Children's Philharmonic Orchestra of the Municipality of Larnaca for its participation, stating that its presence gives real substance to the idea of promoting culture and strengthening a shared European identity.
In his speech, Kadis also highlighted the photography exhibition by the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute, titled "Beneath the Surface: CMMI's Dive into Marine Sciences," which was inaugurated during the event. As Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, he noted the importance of seas and oceans as spaces for co-operation, sustainable development, and shared responsibility. The recently adopted European Ocean Pact reinforces this approach by linking scientific knowledge, environmental protection, and the sustainable development of coastal and island communities.
Kadis concluded by stating that these elements reflect the importance of joint action and collective responsibility for the future of Europe. The event serves as a reminder that Europe is, above all, its people. It is the societies that co-operate, the young people who create, and the communities that continue to invest in democracy, co-operation, and a shared future.