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- Ελληνικά
On 1 May 2004, the flag of the European Union flies for the first time in Cyprus. Our small homeland is conquering its own star in European affairs and touching a great vision. A vision that gives it a political stature far greater than its longitude and latitude. It guarantees it a place in the European family, in its natural habitat, where it is united by the same principles and universal values: Democracy, inclusion, unity, solidarity, respect for human rights, the rule of law and individual freedoms.
The European project has emerged as a pillar of security, peace and stability from the ruins and horrors of a World War. It may not be perfect. But it has the strongest foundations for building the Europe we want and investing in tomorrow.
As an equal member state, we actively participate, we shape policies for the benefit of our citizens, we make use of connections, contacts and every perspective offered by parliamentary diplomacy. We build bridges, we claim and play a leading role in major geopolitical issues, we face major challenges together in a spirit of solidarity: Migration, energy, health and food crises.
We stand on the right side of history on every charge. And with European principles and values as our shield, we ask our European partners to do the same for our country. To put words into practice. The Cyprus problem is a European issue and Europe, yes, will never be whole as long as Cyprus is divided.
Our accession to the European Union is the most important legacy we have to pass on to future generations. No state can face the great challenges alone. And nothing can be taken for granted and nothing can be taken for granted. Everything is changing. And we have both a voice and a role to play. Let us not shy away from this encounter with history. After all, we are Europe.
(Text as sent by the House of Representatives)
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