President appoints Representative for Religious Freedoms/Protection of Minorities in MidEast

President Nikos Christodoulides has appointed Thessalia Salina Shambos as the Special Representative of the Republic of Cyprus for Religious Freedoms and Protection of Minorities in the Middle East.

Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said in a statement that the move is in recognition of the crucial need to protect religious freedoms and support minorities in the Middle East.

The appointment will come into effect on 1 January 2025.

Letymbiotis said that Thessalia Salina Shambos, with proven diplomatic skills and experience, will work for the protection of Christian and other minorities, through dialogue with states in the region, to strengthen their rights and promote sustainable solutions to the challenges they face, while her mission will assist the EU's efforts to support religious groups in the region.  

At the same time, the appointee will promote multilateral dialogue and inter-religious meetings to enhance the inclusion of Christian minorities in the region's political processes.

The Special Representative of the Republic of Cyprus will also promote humanitarian and development assistance to religious minority communities, with a focus on health, education and victim reintegration projects, the Spokesman noted.

He said that the protection of cultural heritage will also be a key priority, with the strengthening of actions for the restoration and protection of religious and cultural monuments. In addition, the Special Representative will highlight the diplomatic role of the Republic of Cyprus as a bridge between the European Union and the Middle East, building on its geographical, cultural and historical position, while strengthening European efforts to promote peace, tolerance and sustainable development.

"With the appointment of Ms Thessalia Salina Shambos, the Republic of Cyprus reaffirms its commitment to support the religious communities of the Middle East, to promote regional stability and to showcase the richness of the region's cultural and religious heritage", Letymbiotis noted