Cypriots from across the globe combined in Nicosia as they participated in the 22nd World Conference of Cyprus Diaspora, discussing a range of issues of concern to the country and the diaspora around the world.
The 22nd Conference of the World Federation of Overseas Cypriots (POMAK) – International Coordinating Committee “Justice for Cyprus” (PSEKA) and the Executive Council meeting of the World Organisation for Young Overseas Cypriots (NEPOMAK) was held from 26 to 29 August.
It saw the Cypriot Diaspora all combine with numerous political and community officials present, including Cyprus’ President Nikos Christodoulides who formally declared the opening of the event.
Delegates voted to elect Christos Karaolis as the new President of POMAK, alongside an officer team representing the global Cypriot diaspora, while Philip Christopher was re-elected as President of PSEKA.
The President addressed delegates at the opening ceremony on the Government’s efforts to restart talks on the Cyprus issue and thanked the global diaspora, saying:
“No amount of thanks can fully capture what you do daily, alongside your family and professional responsibilities.”
The President stressed the need for Cyprus to be strong internally so it can best achieve freedom and reunification, stating:
“To achieve our number one goal – the end of the occupation and the reunification of our homeland – we have a duty to strengthen all factors of our country’s power through actions, not just words.”
The Conference delegates notably passed resolutions urging action on the Cyprus issue.
There were notable ministerial briefings during the Conference, with Foreign Minister Costantinos Kombos addressing delegates on the latest developments in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Cyprus issue.
Delegates were also updated on the Cyprus’ assumption of the presidency of the European Union on 1st January 2026.
Additionally, Education Minister Athena Michaelidou discussed Cyprus’ efforts to support Greek language teaching overseas in community language schools and online platforms.
She also updated delegates about the Education Ministry’s role in providing education to the enclaved Greek Cypriots in the illegally occupied area of Cyprus.
Energy, Commerce and Industry Minister George Papanastasiou updated delegates on the novel approaches to the Cypriot electricity grid and new developments regarding the island’s liquified natural gas resources.
Deputy Minister to the President Irene Piki presented the ‘Minds in Cyprus’ brain gain initiative, which aims to encourage the return of talented Cypriot professionals abroad to the country.
Deputy Europe Minister Marilena Raouna provided an update on Cyprus’ upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026.
She said that Cyprus will be taking the opportunity of the Presidency to promote the geostrategic role of Cyprus as well as the Cyprus issue as a problem of invasion and occupation.
A series of meetings were held across the conference, pertaining to the case of missing persons, the island’s defence policy, as well as to all the latest updates on the Cyprus issue.
Delegates also attended the unveiling ceremony of the bust of diaspora business and US community leader Nikos Mouyiaris in Athienou, which was held under the auspices of the President Christodoulides, with Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment Minister Maria Panayiotou speaking on his behalf.
The Presidents of POMAK, PSEKA and NEPOMAK held a press conference on the final day to provide an update on the conference’s proceedings and elections to Cypriot national media outlets.
Briefing and Reception hosted at Presidential Palace
President Nikos Christodoulides and First Lady Philippa Karsera-Christodoulides hosted POMAK/PSEKA and NEPOMAK Central Council Members for a private briefing at the Presidential Palace.
The briefing was followed by a reception for all conference delegates at the Palace.
Eight individuals of the diaspora were awarded the Medal for Exceptional Contribution by the President, which recognises recipients for their longstanding contribution to society and Cyprus.
NEPOMAK Executive Council Meeting
- NEPOMAK held their Executive Council Meeting alongside the World Conference of POMAK/PSEKA.
- Executive Council Members were joined by participants of the NEPOMAK Cyprus Culture Tour (NCCT).
- The Executive Meeting included a rich programme of workshops on the Cyprus issue and initiatives to engage the global diaspora.
- NEPOMAK delegates also joined the POMAK-PSEKA ministerial briefings, having the opportunity to discuss and exchange views with Cypriot ministers and officials.
