For a potential solution to the Cyprus problem to stand the test of time, it does not require us to deny our own identity, but rather to respect our true history, said the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, in a speech at the dedication of the Monument to the Heroes of the 1955–59 Liberation Struggle in the community of Pyrgos, Limassol.
He emphasized that “despite the extreme and counterproductive rhetoric adopted by the Turkish side—we have heard their well-known demands, most recently from the floor of the UN General Assembly, regarding a two-state solution— for our part, we are utilizing all political and diplomatic means to break the deadlock and create the conditions for the resumption of negotiations.”
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
At the same time, we are working to upgrade and strengthen all of our country’s sources of power, both domestic and foreign, by elevating the significance of our most important legacy—the struggle of EOKA and the Republic of Cyprus,” he said.
The President announced the Government’s decision to provide the Pyrgos Community Council with 10,000 euros to settle any outstanding debtsarising from the construction of the Monument. “If the debts are greater, then the Government will contribute more. And we are doing this not only because we honor the noble struggle of EOKA, but also because this Monument is important for these children, whom we have a duty to teach about EOKA’s struggle, so that they may be proud of EOKA’s struggle,” he said.
“And to preempt any differing opinions from some that such an effort is not in line with our efforts toward liberation and a resolution of the Cyprus problem, the message is clear. For a potential solution to the Cyprus problem to stand the test of time and be sustainable, it does not come through our self-abnegation, but through respect for our true history,” he added.
Furthermore, the President announced the allocation of €150,000 by the Government to complete the redevelopment project of the traditional center of the Pyrgos Limassol community.
Regarding the community’s seaside pedestrian walkway, the President noted that the project had been approved in 2010 but had not moved forward. Following government directives, he said, the exemption process for the urban planning permit has been completed and will be approved by the Council of Ministers so that work can begin. He added that he would return to the community to inaugurate the Citizen Service Center.
Referring to the EU’s new Multiannual Financial Framework, the President said that the government will decide by September 2027 on projects worth €3.5 billion in communities, cities, and municipalities. He called on local authorities to finalize their projects so that they can be approved and implementation can begin.
The initiative for the Memorial began in 2012 with a fundraiser organized by community members and local authorities, inspired by Konstantinos Krasidis. The President described the Monument as “a humble and modest tribute” to the community’s freedom fighters. He added that the Monument is also important for children, who should learn about the EOKA struggle and take pride in it.
The event was attended, among others, by the Minister of Health, the Minister of Transport, Communications, and Public Works, the Deputy Minister of Shipping, and the President of the Pyrgos Community Council, Neoklis Christoforou.
Source: CNA
