President highlights Cyprus’ role on 200th anniversary of Greek independence

Cyprus, that has always been an integral part of Hellenism, has joined in the celebrations for the 200th anniversary of the Greek Revolution, President Nicos Anastasiades said on Monday.

In his pre-recorded message aired at ruling Disy’s celebratory event for the 200 years since the 1821 Greek Revolution, the president said in this effort for their freedom, “the Greeks became a symbol and source of inspiration for enslaved peoples.”

The Greeks, he said, fighting with courage and heroism, succeeded in shaking off Ottoman rule, marking the founding of the first Greek independent state, a milestone in both Greek, European and world history.

“Cyprus, that has always been an integral part of Hellenism, joins in the celebrations for the 200th anniversary of the Greek Revolution,” Anastasiades said.

He added that the contribution of the Cypriots, which, in addition to material goods, was expanded with the participation of more than 1,000 volunteers in the struggle, was of the utmost importance.

At the same time, he said, it confirmed the unbreakable ties but also the unchanging Greek character of the island, during the three centuries of Turkish rule.

“The revengefully heavy blood tax paid by Cyprus in the summer of 1821, with Archbishop Kyprianos as a beacon of resistance, magnified the will and unbridled desire of the Cypriots for freedom,” Anastasiades said.

He said that today, Cypriots draw lessons and strength “from that glorious struggle for the continuation and recognition of our own struggle”.

“Our first and highest priority remains the liberation and reunification of our homeland, as well as its liberation from foreign troops and guarantees,” he said.

The president participated last week at the celebrations in Athens to mark the 200th anniversary.