With the throwing of dozens of red balloons by the children towards their occupied village, Achna, which is located just a few meters away, and with the thunderous, at the urging of the Deputy Mayor of the Achna Municipal District, Mr. Nikos Vasilas, "Achna, we love you," this year's lighting ceremony of the Christmas Decorations in the Achna Forest was marked, which took place yesterday, Saturday, November 29, spreading shivers of emotion among those present.
The event began early in the afternoon with the Christmas parade, led by the Deputy Mayor, Mr. Nikos Vasilas, and members of the Achna Municipal Council on a decorated carriage pulled by a tractor, which ended at the square, where the official lighting ceremony took place at 6:00 p.m.
The Deputy Mayor, Mr. Nikos Vasilas, addressing those present, emphasized that "each balloon that rose into the sky tonight carried a message of love and anticipation for Achna, which remains alive in our hearts." He also wished that this would be the last year that the lighting ceremony takes place away from Achna, sending a message of memory, hope and anticipation for the return.
The Mayor of Ayia Napa, Mr. Christos Zannetou, congratulated the Deputy Mayor of the Municipal District of Achna, Mr. Nikos Vasilas, “who at every opportunity recalls the occupation of Achna and all our occupied areas, keeping the memory alive and the flame of return unextinguished.” He added that Achna remains a symbol of memory, resistance and unity and stressed that last night proved once again that its residents do not bend, but continue to create, support each other and move forward collectively.
During the evening, Achna resident and expatriate Mr. Panagiotis Lazou was honored for his contribution of 50.000 euros to the Achna Community Foundation. The commemorative gift was delivered to his daughter, Ms. Magda Lazou, by the President of the Pancyprian Refugee Association, Mr. George Lysandrides. The Deputy Mayor Mr. Nikos Vasilas emphasized that this gesture is living proof of the love of the Achna residents for their community, wherever they are.
The square was filled with music and festive activities, such as a Bubble Show, Mirror Photobooth, Bubble Dome and face painting, while Santa Claus and the mascot took photos with the children. At the same time, a charity bazaar with food and delicacies was held, strengthening the social actions of the community.
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