President of Cyprus Nicos Christodoulides praised the multifaceted work, intellectual journey, and decisive contribution of Giorgos Georgis to Cyprus’ cultural diplomacy and the strengthening of Hellenism’s cultural ties, during an honorary event organized today, Wednesday, December 10, by the Cyprus House in Athens.
More specifically, speaking about the vision of the founder and long-time Director of the Cyprus House, President Christodoulides noted that Giorgos Georgis has the charisma to inspire with his valuable work that makes the people of his homeland proud.
“A renowned historian, distinguished diplomat, respected university professor, dedicated researcher, and prolific author of books that have enriched Cypriot and Greek literature in general, Giorgos Georgis directs all these qualities towards a common goal: his unquenchable and sincere love for Cyprus and its people, its history and its culture,” the President of the Republic of Cyprus said.
President Christodoulides highlighted Giorgos Georgis’ contribution to promoting and strengthening the historical, spiritual, and cultural ties between Greece and Cyprus, speaking about the establishment of the House of Cyprus, which he described as “a life’s work, […] his child and his home.”
“He has established himself in our consciousness as a prominent figure in the intellectual, cultural, and academic life of both countries. His signature is a seal of authenticity on important publications, studies, interventions, and writings,” President Christodoulides noted.
In this context, the President also referred to the honoree’s contribution to the development of Cyprus’ cultural diplomacy, highlighting, as he said, “a largely unknown aspect of Cyprus: that which has to do with its long history and culture.”
Speaking about the character of the Cyprus House, President of the Republic of Cyprus noted that it is “an active cultural center in the Metropolis of Hellenism, which cultivates and strengthens the unbreakable bonds between Cyprus and Greece over time, promoting our common cultural identity and the unity of Hellenism.”
“A bridge of spirit and culture between Greece and Cyprus that helps people and ideas connect and blend,” he said.
“Today, I honor, together with you, Giorgos Georgis, an active citizen of Hellenism, as a teacher, as a colleague, as a friend. I know firsthand his love for our homeland, for Cyprus, for Greece, for Hellenism, his tireless work ethic, his restless spirit. And I am particularly happy, but also proud, because as long as Cyprus has people like Giorgos Georgis at the forefront, it will always have hope and prospects,” he concluded.
Former President of the Hellenic Republic, Prokopis Pavlopoulos, Greek Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni, and, via video message, President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe Theodoros Roussopoulos also addressed a speech at the honorary event.