The Minister of National Defence Panos Kammenos accompanied by the Chief of HNDGS Admiral Evangelos Apostolakis attended the celebration for the 56th anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Cyprus in Nicosia, as representative of the Government.

After the end of the military parade, the Minister of National Defence stated the following:

“The national independence of Cyprus was achieved with the blood of heroes. It is those heroes that we honour today, mostly, those who fell to defend the national sovereignty and the independence of Cyprus.

Cyprus is now an independent European state where the European acquis is taken for granted. Nevertheless, half of Cyprus’ territory remains enslaved and, as long as it remains enslaved, the motherland will be present to ensure that the solution which will be given will be a solution that presupposes the withdrawal of all occupation forces.

Cyprus is a modern European state, it does not need any mediators or guarantors. Therefore, the solution to the Cyprus’ issue will be the withdrawal of the occupation forces and the non-existence of any sort of guarantees.

In this effort, Greece will always stand by Cyprus. Happy Independence Day to everyone!”

The Minister of National Defence Panos Kammenos had a personal meeting with the President of the Republic of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades.
 
He also inaugurated a photography exhibition for the 50 years of National Guard, held at the Temporary Hall of Lysi.