Despite the lapse of 40 years, the Greek Australian community of Sydney and Wollongong demonstrated for another year in the heart of Sydney last Sunday, demanding justice for Cyprus, making the point that they do not forget the tragedy of Cyprus and stating that the national issue can only be resolved with the withdrawal of the Turkish occupying army.
The Hellenic community of NSW which took part in the events stressed that it is unacceptable for a European country to remain under occupation for 40 years.
Federal Liberal member for Barton Nickolas Varvaris conveyed the message of Prime Minister Tony Abbott, who made special reference to the efforts made and the important role played towards achieving a resolution to the Cyprus issue by former Foreign Minister of Australia and Special United Nations envoy to the island, Alexander Downer.
Federal Labor MP Anthony Albanese, who was representing the Leader of the Opposition Bill Shorten, stated that Australia can do more for Cyprus, especially now that it is a non-permanent member of the Security Council of the United Nations. Regarding the role in the Cyprus question by Mr Downer, Mr Albanese mentioned that “during my visit to Cyprus last year, I found out that several Cypriots were dissatisfied with Mr Downer’s mediation”.
In his remarks, Liberal Senator Arthur Sinodinos said that “if mistakes were committed by representatives in the past, we should not dwell on them but treat them as lessons for more constructive contribution in the future”.
The envoy of Cyprus’ government to this year’s commemorative events in Australia, Mr Theodosios Tsiolas, general secretary of the Cabinet of Ministers, informed the community about the current talks between the Cypriot government and the Turkish Cypriot side and went on to thank the diaspora for its continuous support on the national issue.
Present at the commemorative events in Sydney were the High Commissioner of Cyprus to Australia Ioanna Malliotis, Greek Consul General Dr Stavros Kyrimis, the leadership of the Greek and Cypriot organisations of NSW, representatives of the Greek Orthodox Church, state MPs and local councillors.