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- Ελληνικά
Let me thank you, dear Madam Mayor, for your invitation to today's celebration, but also congratulate the Municipal Council of Lakatameia for the original initiative to inaugurate parks in the Municipality, giving the names of the former Presidents of the Republic. A symbolic move that expresses the respect of the entire community of Lakatameia, but also of the Cypriot society, for the work and personality of the former Presidents Tassos Papadopoulos, Dimitris Christofias and Glafkos Clerides. Three leading figures of the Cypriot political scene, who worked hard for our country and our people.
Today we honour a great figure, a visionary, a fighter for freedom and democracy. Glafkos Clerides was distinguished for his exemplary foresight and credibility, and enjoyed the utmost respect in Cyprus and abroad for his moderation. Idealistic and far from populist, with a high sense of responsibility, he worked in his long political career for the interests of our country.
Opening a new chapter in the political scene of the country, he founded the Democratic Rally and led the difficult effort to find a solution that would liberate our country and restore the rights of the entire Cypriot people. He spearheaded the diplomatic effort that resulted in the accession of Cyprus to the great family of the European Union, thus achieving one of his great strategic goals.
Dear friends,
One can talk for hours about Glafkos Clerides, his struggles and his legacy. The principles he stood for are to this day a beacon for all of us and for this we owe him our deepest respect and gratitude.
It is for this that the deed of the Municipality of Lakatameia acquires greater value. The citizens of Lakatameia and the neighbouring areas will now have at their disposal a core of greenery, an open space for recreation and sport. The games, the basketball court, the exercise equipment, the games for people with disabilities and the cafeteria that operates in the area make up a beautiful environment for children and adults alike.
Dear Mayor, your City Council's initiative to honour the former Presidents of the Republic reflects the mission and role of Local Authorities, which is none other than to stand by the citizen and create conditions for their well-being.
Congratulations. Thank you very much.
(MKY)
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