Nicosia: The World Conference of Overseas Cypriots is set to commence on Tuesday evening in Nicosia, featuring addresses from Cyprus' political and state leaders, representatives of the Cypriot diaspora, Greece, and the Church. The conference is scheduled to run until Friday, July 31.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Service for Overseas Cypriots and Repatriated Cypriots of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs revealed that the opening ceremony will begin at 19:00 local time at The Landmark Nicosia hotel. The event will be broadcast live by the Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation (CyBC).
Participants will be welcomed by Ambassador Theodora Constantinidou, the Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos will deliver the keynote address on behalf of President Nikos Christodoulides, officially declaring the conference open.
The opening ceremony will also include addresses by Greece's Deputy Foreign Minister for Greeks Abroad, Ioannis-Michail Loverdos, and House of Representatives President Annita Demetriou. Additionally, Archbishop Georgios of Cyprus will deliver an address.
Greetings will be offered by Christos Karaolis, President of the World Federation of Overseas Cypriots (POMAK); Philip Christopher, President of PSEKA; and Christos Touton, President of the Youth of Overseas Cypriots (NEPOMAK).
This year's conference holds special significance as it marks the 50th anniversary of the World Federation of Overseas Cypriots (POMAK), celebrating the organization's role in maintaining ties between the Cypriot diaspora and their homeland. Concurrently, the Global Conference of the Youth of Overseas Cypriots (NEPOMAK) will take place, with elections for the new Central Council underscoring the ongoing engagement of the younger generation of the Cypriot diaspora.
The World Conference of Overseas Cypriots serves as the main institutional platform uniting the Republic of Cyprus with the organised Cypriot diaspora. It aims to enhance cooperation, preserve connections with Cyprus, and promote national objectives through the active involvement of overseas Cypriot organisations and the younger diaspora generation.