Press Releases

It is always a great honour and pleasure to participate in commemorative events for Mahatma Gandhi. Especially this year, marking the 150^th anniversary of his birth. An anniversary that in recent years is also celebrated worldwide as the International Day of Non-Violence, following a relevant decision by the UN. I must thank the High Commissioner of India to Cyprus, Dr R.K. Raghavan, for inviting me to take part in today’s celebrations. An occasion for all of us to take a moment and contemplate upon the teachings and legacy of this great man.

Tonight’s event sheds light on the life of Mahatma Gandhi and on the events that shaped the charismatic personality and long-lasting influence of one of the most enlightened leaders of our times. Ghandi’s achievements tell a tale of constant struggle and devotion to the values of pacifism and non-violence and continue to inspire millions of people to this day.

The commemoration of today’s anniversary provides us also with the opportunity to celebrate the strong and friendly ties between Cyprus and India. Through the years, our two countries and peoples have both suffered from a turbulent history of colonialism, struggling for freedom and independence. Through these similar agonies, emerged a strong friendship, founded on mutual respect and commitment to democratic ideals and values, as well as on our common aim to work for peace and prosperity for our citizens. We shall continue to enhance this cooperation in a multitude of fields, including educational and cultural exchanges, as well as exchanges within the framework of the greater family of the Commonwealth, always keeping in line with Mahatma Gandhi’s inspirational legacy.

Today, as our world is facing a variety of challenges and predicaments, we should all remember the essence of Gandhi’s teachings and vision and the responsibility that we have towards ourselves, our societies and the generations to come, to secure a world where the values of peace, tolerance, understanding and non-violence prevail. Upholding these ideals is the best way to honour the memory of such a great man.

Thank you.

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(MG/SCH)