An Historic Moment For Hellenism: The Accession Of Cyprus In The European Union

Thessaloniki, December 13, 2002 - The President of the World Council of Hellenes Abroad (SAE), Mr. Andrew A. Athens, expresses his full satisfaction for the accession of Cyprus in the European Union and congratulates the governments of Greece and Cyprus for the successful effectiveness of their diplomatic efforts that lead to this great national success.

"The Summit of the European Union in Copenhagen defines the beginning of a new era for Cyprus," Mr. Athens stated. "The historic decision for all of Hellenism of the 15 member-countries of the European Union for the accession of Cyprus in its family, justifies the consistent and tireless struggles of the omogeneia that stood on the side of both the governments of Cyprus and Greece from the first moment.

Struggling since 1974 for the rights of the Cypriot people, we joined our forces from the first moment and with the idea of the accession of Cyprus in the European Union and we supported firmly at the decision-making centers with the assurance that security, reconciliation, and prosperity for all Cypriots are goals that may better be achieved with Cyprus being a member of the great European family of democratic countries.

The World Council of Hellenes Abroad (SAE), expresses its thanks also to the government of the US and the governments of all the other countries that contributed in bringing back the Cypriot issue to its correct dimension and 28 years later have justice restored for the benefit of all Cypriots.

We shall continue to provide our support with every mean so that we may all soon celebrate the achievement of a just and viable solution of the Cypriot issue that will ensure the full enforcement of the basic individual rights with respect to the differentiation of cultures and traditions."