It is with feelings of great joy that I am here with you today for the Military Merit Medal Ceremony in recognition of the state for your continued service.
I must warmly congratulate you for your dedication to the sacred task of defending the homeland, a mission which requires fortitude, will and moral qualities that have proven to be your hallmark.
In this extremely critical period we are going through, with the increasing provocations from Turkey at every opportunity, its destabilizing actions in the EEZ and the partial opening of Varosha, which constitutes a clear violation of the UN Security Council resolutions, we are obliged to be vigilant and constantly ready to face all the dangers that may arise.
The Government's objective is to put an end to this unacceptable situation and to resolve the Cyprus problem through diplomatic means. We feel our responsibilities and realize that there is no other way than to claim our right with all the legal means at our disposal, using our status as a European country, combined with the alliances we are building and the enhanced geopolitical importance of our island.
But as long as our homeland remains under occupation and Turkey threatens with new facts, the National Guard should and must be on high alert, as the ultimate force of deterrence and protection of our statehood and our national sovereignty. For these reasons, it is imperative to strengthen and continuously upgrade our defence. In this unstable environment, keep your spirits high and continue to offer your services to your country with the same dedication.
I wish each of you individually a Happy New Year, every success in your professional military career, health, personal and family happiness.
Note.
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