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Dear President and members of the Board of Directors of the Athletic and Spiritual Club of Alona,
Ladies and gentlemen,
It is with great pleasure that I am in your village today, here in the periphery of Pitsilia between the peaks of Madaris and Papoutsa, to declare the opening of the 50th Alona Festival and thank you for the invitation.
In the summer of 1971, when this institution first started, no one could have thought that in the years that followed, such world-historical events would take place not only in the world but also in our own country.
For all Cypriots this year, the number 50 is a landmark number, a number that cannot be forgotten or erased from the memory and the soul, as it inevitably refers to the 50 years of pain, suffering and sorrow from the unspeakable tragedy of the Turkish invasion and the ongoing occupation.
The days of July, which have passed but are not withdrawn from the collective memory, are those that for 50 years have been a reference point that despite the challenges and difficulties we face due to the intransigent Turkish stance, we do not accept the occupation and the present state of affairs.
The state and I personally believe in a better future for our homeland, because it is our only option to overturn the facts with the ultimate goal and objective of reunifying our homeland and handing it over to its legitimate inhabitants, Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots, Maronites, Armenians and Latins.
The struggle is continuous, both of the Republic of Cyprus and of the present government of Nicos Christodoulides, for the creation of prospects for the resumption of substantial negotiations aimed at finding a solution, always on the basis of the decisions of the United Nations, the principles of the European Union and with respect for human rights.
Dear Guests,
From August 10 to 17, the Alona Festival will be another part of the preservation of cultural and spiritual heritage through various events, especially this year, which marks 50 events.
Locals and foreigners will have the opportunity, in the coolness of the Troodos mountain range, to watch dance performances, theatre, music, children's events for our young friends, while there will be no lack of social contribution, with initiatives such as blood donation and an event to support PASYKAF.
Of great importance is the decision of the Board of Directors of the Sports and Spiritual Club of Alona to honour today three worthy children of the place, whose common denominator is their indisputable contribution to the artistic events and culture of the place.
Telemachos Kanthos, father of modern Cypriot painting and pioneer of engraving in Cyprus.
Telemachos Kanthos, father of modern Cypriot painting and pioneer of engraving in Cyprus. Eleni Nicodimou, a painter with an indelible mark not only on the artistic but also on the social scene, and George Tsiakkas, actor and screenwriter, known for his successful innovative series on Cypriot television and beyond.
The reason for this important honour is not only their achievements in culture, but also the fact that their path and distinction included in one way or another their place, Alona, from which they drew inspiration and a reference point for their further life path, personal and professional.
Culture, ladies and gentlemen, is and becomes everyone's business.
Culture, ladies and gentlemen, is and becomes everyone's business. The government of Nikos Christodoulides aims to create a long-term strategy for culture, with the newly established Deputy Ministry of Culture, existing cultural institutions, and specific inter-ministerial partnerships as the implementing body. It harnesses culture for the personal well-being and mental health of citizens, as well as for the development of human skills. It essentially supports cultural production through funding schemes, digital and other tools, and promotes the extroversion of Cypriot creators through cultural diplomacy.
In closing, I would like to wish good luck to all participants of the events and especially to the organizers of the Alona Festival, to wish the further preservation of the institution for many more years and finally to remind all of us of our obligation to preserve and protect this natural wealth from the danger of fires during not only the holidays but all year round.
Have fun. I wish everyone a beautiful and carefree summer and the organizers of the Festival good luck.
(AF/AS)
Contents of this article including associated images are belongs PIO
Views & opinions expressed are those of the author and/or PIO
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