Paphos: Presidential Commissioner Marios Hartsiotis stressed on Tuesday the importance of the Remembrance Day of the Pontic Greeks Genocide, saying that Cyprus understands the pain as a victim of invasion and uprooting.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Hartsiotis represented the President of the Republic of Cyprus at an event for the Remembrance Day of the Pontic Greeks Genocide, held in a school in Paphos. He stated that during the period from 1914 to 1923, Pontic Hellenism faced a significant tragedy when the Neo-Ottoman regime organized persecutions, displacements, and violent marches, aiming to uproot the Pontic Greeks from their ancestral homes.
"Hundreds of thousands of people perished, while many were forced to abandon homes, villages, and towns in search of safety and a new beginning," he said.
Hartsiotis recalled that following a Cyprus Government decision, May 19 has been established in Cypriot schools as a Day of Remembrance and Honour for the Genocide of the Pontic Greeks.
Cyprus and Greece, he stressed, have stood by Pontic Hellenism throughout time, recognizing the Genocide and honoring the victims. Additionally, more countries, parliaments, and states internationally are also recognizing the Genocide.
Cyprus, the Presidential Commissioner concluded, understands the Pontic Greeks since Cypriots know what it means to experience invasion, uprooting, refugees, missing persons, and the ongoing occupation of Turkey.