The Minister of National Defence Mr. Dimitris Avramopoulos was officially invited by the Federation of Cypriot Organisations in America to the Anniversary in honour of the Cyprus Liberation Struggle, held at the Cathedral of Saint Paul in New York.

At his address after the Hierarchical memorial service in honour of the heroes of the Cyprus Liberation Struggle 1955-59, which was officiated by the Archbishop of America Mr. Demetrios, Mr. Avramopoulos stated among others:

“Greece, despite the difficulties, has one of the best defence systems worldwide, with high spirit, comprehensive armament, excellent officers, ready to give their life for Greece, if needed…

…I responded with great pleasure, just like the chief of the Armed Forces General Kostrakos, to the invitation extended by the Cypriot Organisations, to honour the fallen of the Cyprus struggle, as well as the fallen Greeks, officers and soldiers, who offered their blood for Cyprus’ freedom and independence.

Therefore, we are here today, the political and military leadership of the Hellenic Armed Forces, to share with you these higher and nobler notions of a great sacrifice which hasn’t been justified yet…

…Cyprus remains divided; the occupation forces are still present in the island; a barbarian act which insults world civilization. Greece is always by Cyprus’ side, giving a daily struggle to finally reach the desired conclusion. The fertiliser to this great struggle is the sacrifice of those who in 1955 raised the Greek flag, fighting for Cyprus’ union with Greece…

…Unfortunately, difficult conditions followed, along with a coup d’état which opened the door to Turkish invasion. Ever since, one half of Cyprus is under the Turkish invader’s boot. Today, when our country experiences hard times due to the generalised financial crisis, through all what I have said – which are a tribute of respect, recognition and gratitude to those who offered their life for freedom – I would like to underline that Greece, despite the difficulties, has one of the best defence systems in the world, with high spirit, comprehensive armament, excellent officers, ready to give their life for Greece, if needed…

…Our country, regardless of the financial crisis, remains strong, it is powerful, it is always at the frontline with competent armed forces, a part of which left its life, it was sacrificed on our Cyprus’ holy ground…

…I am very proud that the members of the Diaspora here shine and stand out in all fields of political, financial and social life in this important country, with which we are united with strong bonds of friendship and solidarity. These strong bonds will be affirmed and renewed during my contacts in Washington…

… Keep raised the flag of dignity and struggle. This is the only way to honour the people we are honouring today with this memorial service. Since certain events do not simply happen just to happen, but in order for us to update the messages of a noble struggle and to enforce our morale and will to see one day all those we wish and hope for.

Our Cyprus united, independent and free again”.