G. Kotsiras: The Crucial Contribution of Diaspora Hellenism to the Efforts for Resolving the Cyprus Issue
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Giorgos Kotsiras, emphasized the contribution of Diaspora Hellenism in raising international awareness of the Cyprus issue in his address at the opening ceremony of the World Conference of Cyprus Diaspora yesterday, July 30th.
"This year marks a somber anniversary for both Cyprus and Hellenism as we commemorate 50 years since the illegal invasion," Mr. Kotsiras noted, "since the day when Greek and Cypriot soldiers defended the independence and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus under tragically adverse conditions." "Our countries, united and in solidarity through fraternal bonds, respect International Law and advocate for our common national goal of a just, definitive, and mutually acceptable solution to the Cyprus issue, based on of the UN Security Council resolutions”, he continued. The Deputy Minister emphasized that "the perpetuation of the current status quo or the creation of two states in Cyprus are not acceptable solutions neither for Greece nor for Europe”.
Mr. Kotsiras specifically highlighted the Diaspora Hellenism and its role in mobilizing the international community towards resolving the Cyprus issue and reunifying the island. He praised the efforts of Diaspora Hellenism in defending national claims, noting that "the struggle to awaken the international community" regarding the Cyprus issue "also runs through the Diaspora."
In this regard, the Deputy Minister underscored the importance that the current Greek government places on strengthening ties with Hellenism worldwide, referring to a series of recent initiatives in this direction. The Deputy Minister placed special emphasis on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Strategic Plan for Greeks Abroad (2024-2027), which has been entered for public consultation and aims to strengthen ties with the Greek Diaspora, facilitate meaningful and reciprocal communication, and enhance the Greek element globally.
"We invest in a nationally fundamental relationship with the Diaspora, which in turn strengthens Hellenism, amplifying our voice and the voice of Cyprus," concluded Mr. Kotsiras.
December 4, 2024