The High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus in Australia celebrated Cyprus’ 63rd Independence Day last Thursday in Canberra, a few weeks after the actual Cypriot Independence Day – which is on October 1.
Guests at the event included Bishop Bartholomew of Charioupolis – who represented Archbishop Makarios of Australia – as well as all the Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and members of the diplomatic corps. The Presidents of the Cypriot and Greek communities of Australia also honoured the Cypriot Independence Day with their presence.
The President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nicos Christodoulides, shared a poignant message, highlighting “our pride in celebrating 63 years since the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus. It’s a testament to the relentless struggle and perseverance of Cyprus for its independence and its unwavering resilience in the face of occupation. We also take immense pride in our achievements, our democracy, and our place within the European family.”
The Cypriot President added that “this year also holds special significance as it marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Cyprus and the Commonwealth of Australia, established on June 12, 1973. Our partnership has flourished and deepened over the decades, reflecting our historical ties, colonial past, and shared participation in the Commonwealth.”
Likewise, the High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus, Antonis Sammoutis, emphasised Cyprus’ “strong connection to the Commonwealth of Nations” and elaborated that Cypriots “share this bond not only because of our diasporas in the UK, Canada, Australia, and South Africa but also because of our shared history of fighting on the right side of history in two World Wars. We look forward to a common future rooted in values, solidarity, and justice.”
The Cypriot High Commissioner concluded how “on this special occasion, we also express our deep appreciation for the over 100,000 Australians of Cypriot origin, both Greek and Turkish Cypriots, and their organised communities since 1929. We welcome the representatives who travelled from Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, and Sydney to join us. Let’s remember the names of some pioneers who have served Australia with distinction. Andrew Theophanous, George Harrison, Theo Theophanous, Andrea Michaels, Kat Theophanous, Bishop Kyriakos, Justice Philippides, Ambassador Stylianou, and many others.”
The scale of the event, the message delivered by the Cypriot President and the Cypriot High Commissioner, and the presence of so many representatives from Cypriot-Australian and Greek-Australian clubs essentially re-affirmed the inseparable emotional bonds that hold Cyprus and Greece together as one Hellenic nation.
