Remarks by the Minister of Interior of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr Constantinos Ioannou, on the occasion of the National Day reception of Italy
From:
It is with great pleasure and honour that I join you in the celebration of the 79th anniversary of the Italian Republic, Festa della Repubblica.
On 2 June 1946, the Italian people made a courageous and historic choice. One that laid the foundation for the modern, democratic, and dynamic Italy we honour today. Italy’s history is defined by strength, resilience, unity and progress. And it is these very same values that bind and inspire our two countries together.
Cyprus and Italy share a long-standing friendship anchored in history. From ancient trade routes to the cultural and architectural imprints left by the Venetians, our two countries have shared a rich and intertwined journey at the heart of the Mediterranean: connected by sea, commerce, and shared cultural heritage.
History offers us many examples of the Cypriot-Italian bonds: the Cypriot copper exported to Sardinia, the reign of Queen Caterina Cornaro, and so many others.
Dear Friends,
Today, Cyprus and Italy enjoy excellent relations across many sectors: from trade and tourism to energy, education, and defence cooperation.
The frequent high-level visits attest to the fact that our relations with Italy have become closer and more enduring in recent years. Moreover, our joint efforts within the European Union (EU), reflect a shared dedication to advancing peace, prosperity, and a more united and forward-thinking Europe.
Cyprus and Italy also cooperate in the context of both the nine Mediterranean EU member states (MED9), as well as, in the context of the five Mediterranean Member States (MED5).
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I would also like to take this opportunity, and express, once again, our deep appreciation for Italy’s longstanding principled stance on the Cyprus issue, as well as for its unequivocal support to our efforts to reach a viable and comprehensive settlement in accordance with the agreed framework of a bizonal bi-communal federation with political equality, as prescribed in the relevant United Nations (UN) Security Council Resolutions.
Dear Ambassador, dear Federica,
On this auspicious occasion, I wish to reaffirm Cyprus’ strong will to continue working together with Italy both bilaterally, as well as within the EU and beyond, for a more peaceful, secure and prosperous future.
Please join me in raising a glass to the enduring friendship between Cyprus and Italy, and to the continued success and happiness of the Italian people.
Happy Festa della Repubblica! Salute!
(MKy/MS/AS)
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