I am happy for this event for the presentation of the book "Migration - About Cypriot Immigrants" by Petros Porakos, who intrigued with his study on the subject and presents us very important aspects of the migration of Cypriots in various countries. At the same time I am very sorry that my unfulfilled obligations did not give me the opportunity to be here with you.
Through these data, the will, determination, strength and perseverance shown by our compatriots in taking the decision to seek a better perspective for themselves and their families elsewhere, taking into account the problems faced by our people in times that were very difficult for everyone.
It is these problems of poverty and destitution, as well as the uncertainty of tomorrow, that have contributed to the migration flow from Cyprus to other countries, since the first decades of the last century, but I would say more so since the middle of the 20th century and then immediately after the Turkish invasion of our island in 1974.
Coming mainly from rural areas, most of our immigrants had limited education, but they were distinguished by great love, sincerity and respect for all. They were also distinguished, and still are, by a common desire for their homeland, our faith, our customs and traditions.
This desire and traits led them to create small or even larger communities in their new homelands with the common goal of maintaining close contact with each other and of helping and supporting each other. This is immediately apparent to anyone who visits one of the Cypriot communities abroad, in the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States, Africa and elsewhere. And it is with great satisfaction to find that, thanks to the hard work and progress shown by many of the Cypriots who emigrated, whether first, second or third generation, they deserve to distinguish themselves in their new communities and set an example for others.
The President of the Republic of Cyprus, the Government and the State attach particular importance to the Cypriot Diaspora.
The President of the Republic of Cyprus, the Government and the State attach particular importance to the Cypriot Diaspora. It may sound like an exaggeration to many, but nearly 800 thousand of our compatriots permanently reside outside our borders. In other words, another Cyprus.
We are proud of all of them, as through their progress and creative contribution to the development of local communities, they simultaneously promote our national identity, culture and civilization, thus constituting the continuation of the dynamic presence of the Cypriot Hellenism abroad.
At the same time, through the leadership of their organizations, they contribute to the promotion of our national cause and play a decisive role in the efforts made. It is for this reason that we are deeply grateful and appreciative for the support of our diaspora both on the Cyprus problem and other national issues, and for the support of our traditions, culture and language.
In this context, we attach particular importance to the utilization of the young generation of our Diaspora with specific programmes and objectives, such as their involvement and engagement in parochial events, contact and acquaintance with Cyprus, learning its language and culture and others. The new generation is the future of our Diaspora, they are the future leaders of our organizations.
Having said this, I think you understand the importance of studying the various aspects of the migration of Cypriots and disseminating its findings through specific self-reports and narratives of events by immigrants, as Petros Porakos has done with his forthcoming book. Undoubtedly, his contribution to the tightening of ties between our expatriates and their strengthening is given and essential.
I congratulate my friend Petros Porakos and I wish his book to be well received in all continents and countries where Greek Cypriots live.
Note.The greeting was read on behalf of the Commissioner for the Presidency by the Consul of the High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus in London, Mrs Melivoya Demetriou.
Contents of this article including associated images are belongs PIO
Views & opinions expressed are those of the author and/or PIO
Source
