President of the European Parliament David (David) Maria Sassoli has died at the age of 65. David Maria Sassoli had been a Member of the European Parliament since 2009 and its President since 2019, at a time of particular challenges such as completing Britain's exit from the EU, shaping the European Union's strategy on climate change and dealing with the coronavirus pandemic. In the midst of the particularly difficult conditions created by the pandemic, the European Parliament, under its own leadership, continued its work to ensure that the voice of citizens is not silenced.
David Maria Sassoli was a staunch defender of European ideals, European integration, democracy, human rights and the rule of law. A progressive leader with a vision, which he served tirelessly and selflessly. He believed deeply in the human person, putting him at the heart of his efforts for a Union of solidarity and justice, for a more promising future for European citizens, especially young people.
He strongly condemned Turkey's provocative actions in the enclave of Famagusta and in the Cyprus Exclusive Economic Zone, defending European principles and values. Unfortunately, the coronavirus pandemic prevented him from visiting Cyprus, following an invitation he had accepted.
David Maria Sassoli's legacy is an important legacy. As politicians, we draw inspiration and strength from his vision to build the Europe of the Future, a Europe worthy of the expectations of its citizens.
Yesterday, 11 January, I sent a letter of condolence on behalf of all Members of the House of Representatives to the First Vice-President of the European Parliament, Mrs Roberta Metsola (Metsola) and this morning I signed the book of condolences opened at the European Parliament's Office in Cyprus. I expressed, on behalf of all Members of the House of Representatives and myself personally, our deepest condolences to his family, his colleagues in the European Parliament and to the friendly Italian people.
Dear colleagues,
We begin today's sitting with a reference to the death of former Member of Parliament Dinos Hadjinicola, whose funeral service was held yesterday in his hometown of Kellaki Limassol.
Dinos Hadjinicola began his active activity early on with his involvement in the student movement in Italy, where he studied.
Upon his return to Cyprus, the deceased developed a multifaceted activity by assuming various professional duties and offices, while at the same time writing articles in the daily press. Initially he worked in the Limassol District Committee of AKEL, of which he was a member. He was district secretary of the Limassol Cypriot Farmers' Union and a member of the boards of the Cyprus Table Grapes Export Council and the Vineyard Products Council.
In the period 1994-2001 he was a councillor of Yermasogeia, where he was honoured by the municipality for his general contribution to the community. He was also a member of the Central Committee of AKEL.
From 2003 to 2011 he served as an AKEL Limassol MP. During his time in the Parliament, he was deputy chairman of the Parliamentary Committees on Agriculture and Environment, as well as a member of the Parliamentary Committees on Trade and Industry and on Institutions, Values and the Commissioner for Administration.
I express our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.
I invite you to observe a one-minute silence in memory of the two men.
May their memory live on!
(SX)
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