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It is with great pleasure and honour that I accepted the invitation of the International Armenian Cultural and Educational Association of Cyprus "HAMAZKIN", to put under my patronage and address the 24th annual performance of Armenian dances and songs by the choir "Kushan" of Beirut and the dance groups "SIPAN" of Nicosia, "ANI" of Paphos, "KILIKIA" of Limassol and the children's group "NANOR". Not only because these musical and dance performances are characterized by a high artistic level and every year they impress with the spectacular and qualitative spectacle they offer, but mainly because our ties with the Armenians are many, substantial and deep. They are historical, political and very human ties, as the destinies of our peoples intersect throughout time in the cogs of history.
Our historical bond begins centuries ago, as Armenians have had a continuous documented presence on the island since the 6th century AD when villages such as Armenochori and Armenou were established. In fact, during the Latin occupation, Armenian was one of the official languages of Cyprus.
In the 20th century, as a result of mass deportations and the Armenian genocide, large numbers of refugees arrived on the island and the Armenian community grew. This historical event further connected us as peoples. Unbreakable bonds were created through the difficulties faced by our peoples, such as refugeeism, displacement, the reconstitution of a community, endurance and solidarity in our common historical fate.
The presence of the Armenians on the island undoubtedly contributed actively to the shaping of Cyprus in the 20th century. People educated, professional, with traditions, arrived on the island and brought with them knowledge and practical experience in both traditional and technical professions. They also made a special contribution in the fields of science, letters and arts. Literature and the arts - especially dance and music - are an integral part of a community's identity and their preservation should undoubtedly be ensured in every possible way.
It is precisely for this reason that the establishment and the activities of the Panethnic Armenian Cultural and Educational Association of Cyprus "HAMAZKIN", as well as the dance groups "SIPAN" Nicosia, "ANI" Paphos, "KILIKIA" Limassol and the children's group "NANOR", are extremely important. These organizations are the custodians who have been entrusted with the role of preserving the identity of Armenians.
That is why the Deputy Ministry of Culture consciously always stands by their side and assists them in every effort and action and financially supports events and synergies that aim to preserve and promote elements of their cultural heritage.
The Ministry of Culture consciously stands by their side and assists them in every effort and action and financially supports events and synergies that aim to preserve and promote elements of their cultural heritage.
The Ministry of Culture consciously stands by their side and assists them in every effort and action and financially supports events and synergies that aim to preserve and promote elements of their cultural heritage.
Moreover, the Republic of Cyprus, having signed the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages, has actively undertaken the contractual obligation to protect the Armenian as well as the Cypriot Maronite Arabic languages, and by signing the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities of the Council of Europe, takes measures to strengthen and promote the elements of identity, customs, traditions and culture of the Maronite, Latin and Armenian communities of our island, whose history is inextricably linked to the modern history of our country. The Deputy Ministry of Culture is working systematically to support and implement this political commitment of the Government.
In conclusion, I would like to warmly congratulate the organizers of today's event, the International Armenian Cultural and Cultural Association of Cyprus "Hamazkain" and the Office of the Representative of the Armenian Community in the House of Representatives, Mr. Vartkes Mahtesyan.
In conclusion, I would like to warmly congratulate the organizers of today's event, the International Armenian Cultural and Cultural Association of Cyprus "Hamazkain" and the Office of the Representative of the Armenian Community in the House of Representatives, Mr. Vartkes Mahtesyan. As Deputy Minister of Culture, I would like to assure you that the Deputy Ministry will continue to support all your efforts, both morally and in practice, fully sharing your goals and aspirations.
My hope is that such commendable initiatives will continue in the future, and will offer the members of the Armenian community of Cyprus the opportunity to keep their customs and traditions alive, as well as offer all Cypriots the opportunity to get to know the cultural heritage of our fellow citizens.
I wish your event every success.
(EC/EATH)
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