We have a sacred duty towards all the people of Famagusta and all the refugees, to continue the effort to end the occupation and liberate Cyprus, said Deputy Minister of Immigration and International Protection, Nikolas Ioannides, on Thursday evening.
In his speech, on behalf of the President of the Republic, at the presentation, in Ayia Napa, of the historical anniversary album "GSE - 120 years in the Ramparts" of the Gymnastics Association "Evagoras" (GSE) of Famagusta, Mr. Ioannides said that this presentation and the proclamation of the new honorary presidents of the Gymnastics Association "Evagoras" (GSE) of Famagusta, Pavlos Pavlakis, Antonis Papadopoulos and Moses Mantzalos, are moments that highlight the greatness of the Association.
He added that "the GSE, one of the most historic sports and cultural associations not only of Cyprus, but also of the wider Hellenism, has traveled a 122-year path, full of struggles, distinctions and invaluable contributions. From the sports fields to the cultural events and national struggles of our homeland, the GSE has been a pioneer, embodying in an exemplary way the value of "fair play".
The great successes of the GSE at a national and international level, he continued, "filled Cyprus and Greece with pride, making the name of Famagusta, the city that gave birth to it, internationally known. The name of Evagoras, the fighting king of Salamis, traveled throughout the world, thanks to the dedication, professionalism and ethos of the executives, coaches and athletes of the Association."
As Mr. Ioannidis said, "the anniversary album is not simply a record of the long and rich history of the GSE. It is mainly a living piece of the history, life, and soul of the city and province of Famagusta, which is always moving," he said.
As Deputy Minister of Immigration and International Protection, but also as a Famagusta resident, he noted, "I fully understand the depth and importance of the history of refugee associations. Those expelled from their ancestral homes not only managed to stand on their own feet, but also to inspire the entire Hellenism with their action and struggles."
The GSE, he noted, "although hosted at various stages in the refugee camp, managed to regain its glory and greatness. This resilience, this ability to rebuild and progress through difficulties, is a beacon of hope and a powerful message for all those experiencing uprooting."
Mr. Ioannidis also said that "as a State, we owe enormous gratitude to all the members of the Board of Directors of the Famagusta GSE over time for their invaluable contribution. To all those who contributed decisively to the creation of the legend of the GSE: coaches, athletes, supporters and stakeholders."
At the same time, he continued, "we have a sacred duty towards all the people of Famagusta, to all the refugees, to continue the effort to end the occupation and liberate our homeland."
He also mentioned that this particular event "conveys many messages and symbolisms. The scientific editing and publication of the album constitute a substantial contribution to historical memory and contribute to the transmission of the values, vision and spirit of the Famagusta GSE to future generations."
Through its pages, he continued, "the album confirms that the 'Evagoras' Gymnastics Club of Famagusta continues to be a pioneer, preserving and promoting the values of sports, social contribution, culture and our national consciousness."
The Deputy Minister of Immigration expressed, on behalf of the President of the Republic, warm "congratulations for the elegant and content-rich publication, but also for the timeless work of the GSE. We are certain that the GSE will continue to be a symbol of resilience, fighting spirit, excellence and hope for return," he concluded.
Source: KYPE
