President Christodoulides honoured five Cypriots living abroad on Wednesday evening for their contributions to both society and Cyprus.
He also commended the “selflessness” of diaspora Cypriots and their relentless efforts to promote their homeland overseas.
Hosting a reception at the Presidential Palace for attendees of the 21st World Conference of Cyprus Diaspora, the President bestowed the “Outstanding Contribution to the Republic of Cyprus” medal upon Ismini Michael, Stelios Georgiades, Kyriakos Tsioupras, Paschalis Kitromilides, and Charalambos Kapnoulas.
In his address during the event, the President conveyed his appreciation for diaspora Cypriots and their unwavering dedication to safeguarding “our beloved Cyprus.” He acknowledged their altruistic endeavours and their role as “global ambassadors” for Cyprus.
He underlined that their ongoing efforts continue to be a shining beacon and vital support for successive governments of the Republic of Cyprus, especially in the pursuit of ending the Turkish occupation and finding a viable resolution to the Cyprus problem.
The President stressed that the medal awarded to these five diaspora Cypriots signifies the recognition of their exceptional contributions to society and their homeland.
Directing his words to the recipients of the medal, President Christodoulides stated that both he personally and the entire Cypriot populace would be forever grateful for their dedicated contributions to Cyprus.
Upon receiving the medal, Ismini Michael said that diaspora members, regardless of where they are, “have love in our souls and we all strive for a common goal which is none other than the freedom of our Cyprus.”
On his part, Stelios Georgiades expressed deep pride in fellow expatriate Greek Cypriots, highlighting their achievements in challenging circumstances. He voiced confidence that the new generation, guided by the wisdom of the older generation, can achieve even more for Cyprus’ freedom and its rightful global standing.
Accepting the medal on behalf of her father, Katerina Tsioupras conveyed how touching it was to receive such an honour in recognition of his tireless dedication to the Cypriot community in London and Cyprus. She recounted her father’s ceaseless work in journalism with the aspiration of a united and liberated Cyprus.
Paschalis Kitromilides called for the continuation of this award tradition, noting that numerous deserving individuals should be remembered and acknowledged.
Charalambos Kapnoulas expressed that he didn’t perceive himself as solely an expatriate; instead, he felt a deep connection to Cyprus, carrying the essence of a Cyprus that might no longer physically exist but thrives within him, as in many others, both within the homeland and abroad.
