Deputy Minister of Shipping Marina Hadjimanolis referred to continued efforts for a Cyprus settlement, to the country's role as a pillar of stability in the Eastern Mediterranean as well as to the strategic importance of shipping to the Cypriot economy, while addressing an event in London hotel to mark the 65th anniversary of the independence and establishment of the Republic of Cyprus.
Hadjimanolis represented the Cyprus government at the 14 October event, while the UK government was represented by the Minister for the Constitution and European Union Relations, Rt Hon Nick Thomas-Symonds.
The celebration was attended by British MPs, government officials, representatives of the Commonwealth and the International Maritime Organization (IMO), diplomats, members of the Church, the business and academic communities, and Cypriots from the diaspora. His Eminence Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain honored the event with his presence.
High Commissioner Dr. Kyriacos P. Kouros and his wife, Vasiliki Kinani Kourou, together with members of the Cypriot diplomatic mission, welcomed the guests. The event began with the national anthems of Cyprus and the United Kingdom.
In his welcome address, the High Commissioner referred to the international challenges and conflicts affecting Cyprus and the wider region, as well as the ongoing occupation and the need to restart meaningful negotiations for reunification. At the same time, he highlighted the progress and resilience of the Republic of Cyprus and emphasized the importance of Cyprus–UK relations on political, economic, and defence levels. He also underlined the contribution of shipping to the Cypriot economy, dedicating this year’s anniversary to Cyprus’s candidacy for re-election to the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
In her remarks, Hadjimanolis praised the close and enduring ties between Cyprus and the United Kingdom, making special reference to the Cypriot community in the UK for its contribution to maintaining the bonds between the two countries. She also highlighted the development, challenges, and achievements of the Cypriot state, focusing on the Republic’s steady progress and resilience “despite the challenges,” as she noted. Ms. Hadjimanolis reiterated Cyprus’s continued efforts toward reunification and its role as a pillar of stability in the Eastern Mediterranean. Finally, she spoke of the strategic importance of shipping to the Cypriot economy and of Cyprus’s candidacy for re-election to the IMO Council, stressing the country’s role as a reliable and active partner in the international maritime community.
Rt Hon Nick Thomas-Symonds, in his address, congratulated the Republic of Cyprus and its people on 65 years of independence, emphasizing the deep and multifaceted relationship that unites the two countries. He also expressed the UK government’s commitment to further strengthening cooperation with Cyprus at political, economic, and social levels. Moreover, he reaffirmed the UK’s long-standing support for a solution to the Cyprus issue based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality. He announced that he would visit the island in the coming weeks, as Cyprus prepares to assume the presidency of the European Union in the first half of 2026.
The evening concluded with a cultural and musical program that showcased the richness, hospitality, and vibrancy of Cypriot culture.
(Source: CNA)
