The Hellenic Force in Cyprus (ELDYK) is an integral part of the modern history of the Republic of Cyprus, said the Minister of Defence, Michalis Giorgallas, at an event held in Lefkara village, in Larnaca district, in honour of ELDYK.
He stressed that the continuous presence of the force on the island, in addition to maintaining strong national unity, was 'a factor of security and deterrence' for the Cypriot people 'and resounding proof of our long, stable and unwavering relationship' with Greece.
In his address, Giorgallas expressed 'the sincere gratitude of the Cypriot State and of Cypriot Hellenism as a whole, to Greece, which, in every way supports the Republic of Cyprus and the struggle we are waging for the freedom and survival of our people'.
He also said, that, in every armed conflict of Greece for the defence of national rights from ancient to modern times, 'Cypriot Hellenism resolutely declared its presence, as a sign of active support and national obligation'.
The Minister also referred to 'the historical events' that made ELDYK an integral part of the modern history of the Republic of Cyprus, as he noted, highlighting its 'important and decisive role' in defending the country during the 1974 invasion of Turkey.
'Our presence here', he noted, 'is a reminder of our debt' to the heroic Greek soldiers who were killed or are missing since, 'and of our unwavering will to continue the fight, until the final vindication. The much wanted solution of the Cyprus problem and the liberation of our homeland'.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.
Source: Cyprus News Agency