66 Years of the Republic of Cyprus. On August 16, 1960, Cyprus became a constitutional state, and more than six decades later, having weathered challenges, wounds, and trials, it stands proud and celebrates its independence, yet it bears the burden of division.
“The Republic of Cyprus, despite the fact that 14 years after its founding it suffered the barbaric Turkish invasion and has endured 52 years of ongoing occupation, thanks to the Cypriot people, it has made progress, developed, and advanced. Happy anniversary to the Republic of Cyprus. We are justifiably proud of our country.”
Nicos Christodoulides – President of the Republic
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
The morale of the armed forces and security forces was evident in today’s parade, in which both infantry and motorized units demonstrated the extent of our country’s deterrent power.
Statements by Political Leaders
“And this sense of pride is accompanied by a great responsibility to protect and safeguard our homeland.”
Anita Dimitriou – Speaker of the House of Representatives / President of DISY
“The Republic of Cyprus is the shield that protects our homeland and our people—both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots—and that is why we must cherish it like the apple of our eye.”
Stefanos Stefanou – General Secretary of AKEL
“Unfortunately, today our homeland faces the threat of Turkish provocation and aggression. This makes it necessary for us to continuously invest in security and defense.”
Christos Christou – President of ELAM
“When the Greek Cypriot community acts with determination and unity, it can achieve miracles.”
Nikolas Papadopoulos – President of DIKO
“Strengthening our defense and forging closer ties—particularly military ones—with other countries, and especially with Greece, are necessary steps.”
Odysseas Michaelides – Head of ALMA
“We are proud to be Cypriots.”
Fidias Panagiotou – President of Direct Democracy
“We must safeguard the Republic of Cyprus as the apple of our eye, for it is our main pillar of support for liberation.”
George – Archbishop of Cyprus
Shivers of emotion run through the crowd as the elite troops of the Cypriot army proudly march down Joseph Hadjiosif Avenue to thunderous applause from the crowd.
Citizens’ Comments
“We’re celebrating Cyprus’s birthday, and we’ve come to see the army.”
“We came to see the parade; we’re celebrating October 1, 1960.”
“I came to see my son, who serves here, marching in the parade.”
“Today I came to watch the parade, filled with joy and pride that we have such a strong army.”
“We came to see our children march. My son is also marching with ELDYK; we’re quite moved.”
“Today we’re celebrating Cyprus’s independence, and I came to see my dad march with the MAD.”
“Happy Independence Day, Cyprus.”
This was preceded by a memorial service at the heroes’ graves at the Prisoners’ Memorial, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony.
Afterward, the President of the Republic, the Speaker of the House, and the Greek Minister of National Defense laid wreaths at the statue of the First President of the Republic in the courtyard of the Presidential Palace.
Watch the report by Kleio Vourkou:
