The Mayor of Ayia Napa, Mr. Christos Zannetou, attended the Municipality of Pogoni, participating in the commemorative events held in honor of the Epirote Commander-in-Chief of the Greek Revolution of 1821, Hatzimichalis Dalianis, who fell heroically fighting at Frangokastello, Sfakion on May 18, 1828, confirming the bonds of historical and cultural friendship between the two regions. The Mayor was accompanied by the Deputy Mayors of the Municipal Districts of Achna and Sotira, Mr. Nikos Vasilas and Mr. Antonis Koumis.
The event was held in the presence of the Mayor of Pogoni, Mr. Konstantinos Kapsalis, and the Deputy Mayor of Sfakion, Mr. Yiannis Boliotis, who represented the Mayor of Sfakion, Mr. Yiannis Zervos. Also present were representatives of the Local Government, the Region of Epirus, the Church, as well as political, military and police bodies, and a large crowd.
In his statements, the Mayor of Ayia Napa stressed the importance of preserving the common historical memory and promoting the heroes of the Nation, particularly highlighting the unique contribution of Hatzimichalis Dalianis, who, in addition to his sacrifice at Frangokastello, also led the only organized battle of the Greek Revolution in Cyprus, which was fought in Ayia Napa on March 17, 1826. "His sacrifice is a beacon for future generations and reminds us that the struggles for national independence, justice and freedom are enduring."
The event was an opportunity to further strengthen the cooperative relations between the Municipalities. In addition to the existing twinning of the Municipality of Ayia Napa with the Municipality of Pogoni, it was announced that, based on relevant decisions of the Municipal Councils, the official twinning with the Municipality of Sfakia will soon proceed, strengthening the bonds of friendship, culture and historical continuity between the three regions.
"The Municipality of Ayia Napa," he added, "beyond being a global tourist destination, it supports and promotes our history, civilization and culture. We honor our history, our roots and build our future with values, with the aim of passing on all these values to our new generations."
"These three areas, he noted, Pogoni, Sfakia and Ayia Napa, although geographically remote, are deeply connected through their common historical course and the ideals that unite their peoples."
"From Delvinaki Pogoni, to Sfakia and Ayia Napa, the path of Hatzimichalis Dalianis illuminates the past and inspires the future. His sacrifice reminds us that the struggles for justice, freedom and national dignity are timeless and unwavering," concluded Mr. Zannetou.
