Press Releases

It is with great pleasure that I join you today, here in Limassol, my hometown, on the occasion of the 124^th anniversary of the declaration of the Philippines independence from the Spanish colonial rule in 1898.

I wish at the outset to underline that I have enormous respect and admiration for your country and its friendly people and I am deeply touched by the warm welcome and hospitality you have extended to me this morning.

Today’s commemoration provides us with another opportunity to reaffirm the excellence of relations between Cyprus and the Philippines which have been steadily growing since the establishment of our diplomatic ties on 6 March 1980. Having said that, national days are fitting occasions to reflect  back on our common history, take stock of our existing cooperation and explore the promising potential of our relations for the benefit of our people.

Despite the geographical distance that separates our countries, Cyprus and the Philippines share a deep rooted friendship and longstanding ties based always on a common adherence to democratic values, multilateralism and respect of international law.

And I want to take this opportunity to reiterate our willingness and readiness to further enhance our bilateral cooperation in a broad array of fields. Rest also assured that Cyprus remains a steadfast advocate for the advancement of the relations between the EU and the Philippines, truly believing that the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement which entered into force in March 2018 will strengthen the existing cooperation between the two sides on the political, social and economic spheres.

Over the decades the people of our two countries have forged strong bonds of friendship and close cooperation based on genuine feelings of mutual respect and understanding.

The active and ever-expanding Philipino community in Cyprus, one of the largest overseas communities on the island, has been the main instigator of this upward trend forming a dynamic link between our two countries, while also enriching the cultural fabric of the Cypriot society.

What I want to emphasize is that my Government and myself personally will always stand by your side and continue doing our utmost to ensure that all Pilipino nationals will be provided with every support and assistance deemed necessary in order to enjoy the warm Cypriot hospitality.

On the Philippines’ Independence Day, I want to extend once again my heartfelt congratulations to all of you celebrating this joyous occasion, along with my warmest wishes for the progress and prosperity to the amicable, friendly people of the Philippines.

(RM/SCH)