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We are sending the message that we will continue to build our defence by strengthening its operational capabilities and its deterrent capacity, Defence Minister Mr. Michael Yiorgallas.
In remarks to journalists after the military parade, held on the occasion of the national anniversary of October 1, the Defence Minister said: "It is with pride and emotion that today we celebrate the 63rd anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Cyprus.
63 years of history of a homeland filled with golden pages of heroism, but also with unimaginable tragedies, a homeland that today is semi-occupied and constantly threatened by occupying Turkey.
The Republic of Cyprus, despite the difficulties and problems, remains standing and progressing. It is a modern, credible, European state, an equal member of the EU, and recognized by the international community.
The Independence of the Republic of Cyprus is not just an anniversary. It is a living historical milestone and a response to all those who seek to destroy our statehood.
Today we honour the heroes and fighters of Cyprus. We are inspired by our triumphs and learn from our mistakes. We place on the sacred memory of our heroes our unswerving commitment that we will fight to the end to protect what is at stake and claim what belongs to the Cypriot people as a whole.
We send the message that we will continue to build our defence by strengthening its operational and deterrent capabilities.
Today, with pride and emotion, we felt the high morale and the strong fighting spirit of the participants. I congratulate the leadership, officers and personnel of the National Guard, the Security Forces and all those who participated or contributed to the great success of today's military parade.
I would like to extend a warm welcome and thank the President of the European Parliament, Mrs Roberta Metsola, for her presence. In particular, I would like to thank the friendly Minister of National Defence of Greece, Mr Nikos Dendias, and the friendly Chief of the General Staff, General Konstantinos Floros, for their important and symbolic presence here, which is an unmistakable proof of the unbreakable, unbroken, unbroken ties between Cyprus and Greece, Greece and Cyprus.
I warmly thank the Ambassadors, the Defence Attaches and especially all our fellow citizens who are here with us today to celebrate the Independence Anniversary of the Republic of Cyprus. Happy birthday to the Republic of Cyprus, happy birthday to the Cypriot people."
For his part, the Greek Minister of National Defence said: "Today we commemorate the anniversary of the Independence of Cyprus. We recall the sacrifices of Cypriot Hellenism, the sacrifices that led to the independent, European Republic of Cyprus.
Ensuring that Cyprus remains a beacon of stability and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean is our constant aspiration.
The Hellenic Republic remains committed to supporting our Cypriot brothers and sisters in this great effort.
The Hellenic Republic remains committed to supporting our Cypriot brothers and sisters in this great endeavour.
I want to say from here, from Nicosia, that for the Greece of Bellhara, Rafale and Viper, Cyprus is not far away.
True independence is an ongoing commitment to safeguarding the rights and aspirations of the nation, within the framework of the European acquis, democracy, human rights, respect for borders and the treaties of international law and the international law of the sea.
Cyprus and Greece share this commitment. They share the commitment to the effort of reunification of the Megalossos. Together we will continue to work for a brighter, more peaceful, more stable future for the whole region.
Committed to, and fellow travellers in this commitment with all the countries of the region, without exclusion. But on one supreme and fundamental condition: that all the countries that join us are willing to subscribe to the principles I have mentioned, in particular respect for borders, treaties, international law and the international law of the sea.
In conclusion, I would like to say how proud I felt to be here today for this brilliant parade and to offer my warmest congratulations to its participants."
(PM/MB)
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