Cyprus issue, energy and security to be discussed at World Conference of Overseas Cypriots

The Cyprus problem, but also energy, security and the humanitarian issue of the island’s missing persons and problems faced by the diaspora, will be among the topics of discussion during the World Conference of Overseas Cypriots.

The gathering, which begins on July 26, will be attended by the World Federation of Overseas Cypriots (POMAK), the International Coordinating Committee “Justice for Cyprus” (PSEKA) and the Youth of the World Federation of Overseas Cypriots (NEPOMAK).

The role of the diaspora as regards the Cyprus issue and the humanitarian issue of the missing persons are of key importance, Presidential Commissioner Photis Photiou told Cyprus News Agency (CNA).

He added that this year marks the 20th anniversary since the foundation of NEPOMAK, which will be represented at the conference with 140 young men and women of the diaspora.

On July 28 the central council of the conference will be briefed by the President Nicos Anastasiades on the developments in the Cyprus problem as well as on energy issues.

“The role of Οverseas Cypriots as regards the Cyprus problem is of great importance and we have seen in recent years that the effort especially in the USA and the UK, in foreign decision-making centers, is decisive for our national interests,” Photiou pointed out.

The Presidential Commissioner said that delegates will be informed about the Cyprus issue and Cyprus’ foreign policy by Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides and the Greek Cypriot negotiator Menelaos Menelaou.

Moreover, they will be informed about energy issues by Energy Minister Natasa Pilides, while they will meet with the head of the National Guard and with CIPA, the Cyprus Investment Promotion Agency.

Other important topics of discussion will be the problems faced by the overseas when issuing Cyprus passports or IDs. Photiou said that demand for Cypriot passports has grown since Brexit.

Additionally, the electronic platform for the diaspora will also be presented for the first time at the conference and via which all expatriates will be able to register immediately afterwards.

The goal, he said, is not to see how many Cypriots are abroad, but rather to see where all these remarkable Cypriots are, our doctors, academics, scientists, businessmen who are “our best ambassadors abroad”.

He added that on the same platform there are also references on the language, history, and traditions so that the new generation can learn about its roots.

The conference will be attended by 220 people. This year’s Conference will be held at St Raphael Resort, in Limassol.

The opening ceremony will be broadcast via live streaming, on the website of the Presidential Commissioner at www.commissionertothepresidency.gov.cy and on TV on CyBC 2.