No compromise on sovereignty or dignity, Christodoulides says on Ochi Day

There can be no compromise on matters of sovereignty and national dignity, President Nikos Christodoulides said on Wednesday, as Cyprus marked the 86th anniversary of October 28, 1940, with commemorative events and parades across the island. Speaking to reporters following the Ochi Day parade in Nicosia, Christodoulides drew on the lessons of Greece’s historic resistance against fascist Italy during the Second World War, stressing that the values defended in 1940 remain relevant today. “There are many messages from the epic of 1940 and the resistance of the Greeks. What I would like to focus on is that when it comes to sovereignty and dignity, there can be no compromises or concessions,” he said. “Whatever the cost, our brothers in Greece demonstrated that on these matters there can be no compromises or concessions.” Related Articles • Unity more relevant than ever for divided Cyprus, spokesman says • Palmas marks Ochi Day in Thessaloniki, calls for unity and defence of democratic values • Students keep Ochi Day tradition alive in Tillyria • Lessons of 1940 remain relevant to Cyprus, education minister says The president also highlighted the contribution of Cypriots to the Allied war effort, noting that almost 20,000 had fought alongside Greece and the Allied forces during the Second World War, with many losing their lives. He said their sacrifices were an important part of the anniversary’s significance, stressing that honouring such occasions also meant following the example set by the Greeks in 1940, adapted to present-day circumstances. Students Marching in Paphos President Christodoulides at the cathedral of St Barnabas, Nicosia Christodoulides congratulated those who participated in Wednesday’s parade, including students, representatives of occupied municipalities and communities, and organised groups. He also welcomed the Lyceum of Greek Women from Kavala and the Corfu Philharmonic, which took part in the commemorations. The president had earlier attended the official church service marking the anniversary before taking the salute at the parade in Nicosia. He concluded by extending his wishes to Greeks in Cyprus, Greece and around the world.