A memorial ceremony was held in Nicosia on Monday to honour the people who died in the two World Wars.
Organised by the Nicosia municipality at the Cyprus memorial for fallen soldiers in World War II, the event was attended by Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas, Nicosia mayor Charalambos Prountzos, as well as politicians and ambassadors.
Prountzos said the memory of those lost in the World Wars serves as a reminder of the importance of peace.
“Today we honour not only those who lost their lives in war but also those who fought for a better world, one without war,” he said, highlighting the ongoing need to uphold peace, cooperation, and respect among nations.
Prountzos added that Remembrance Day, observed annually on 11 November to recall the end of World War I hostilities “is not only a day of reflection but one of commitment to future generations”, underlining the role of historical memory in shaping society’s future.
Reflecting on current conflicts, he remarked on the fragility of peace in Europe, citing the recent war in Ukraine and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East as sobering reminders.
Speaking after the mayor, National Guard chief Lieutenant General Georgios Tsitsikostas said that Cyprus actively supported both World Wars, “standing on the side of justice”.
He stressed the contribution of Cypriot volunteers, adding that over 20,000 Cypriots from all religious and ethnic communities served in World War II.
The event concluded with a wreath laying ceremony at the memorial to the Cypriots who fell in World War II.
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