Reflections on Governance and Unity at Greek Political Conference
In a moment of reflection and historical significance, Annita Demetriou, the leader of Cyprus’s Disy party, spoke with nostalgia and vision at the conference of Greece’s ruling New Democracy party in Athens. Demetriou reminisced about the past governance of Disy, stating that Cyprus experienced its better days under their leadership. The conference marked a dual celebration: the 50th anniversary of the inter-party relations between Disy and New Democracy, and the commemoration of Greece’s “Metapolitefsi” period, a pivotal era that transitioned the nation from military rule back to democracy.
Demetriou highlighted the shared journey of Disy and New Democracy, noting that both parties emerged from national challenges with a unified goal: the survival and rejuvenation of their respective nations. She emphasized their common commitment to prioritizing the welfare of their homelands above all else. In her address, she underscored the importance of combating populism and extremism through principles rooted in patriotism and steadfast belief in European Union values and Western civilization.
The rule of law, human rights, individual freedoms, and a social market economy are values both parties cherish deeply, according to Demetriou. She reinforced the notion that a fortified Greece inherently strengthens Cyprus, a principle that remains central to their policies. With the Cyprus issue at the forefront, Demetriou called for urgent coordinated efforts between Cyprus and Greece, leveraging their collective European trajectory and the influence of the European People’s Party.
Expressing gratitude towards Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis for his unwavering support on the Cyprus problem, Demetriou praised his clear stance against a two-state solution and Turkey’s aggressive actions. She echoed Mitsotakis’s view that any normalization of relations between Greece and Turkey must progress through resolution of the Cyprus issue.
Turning to broader European concerns, Demetriou described the current era as a critical turning point in history. She stressed the responsibility of European leaders to forge a collective vision for Europe’s future—a future that respects cultural diversity while embracing digital and green advancements. Demetriou concluded by calling for unity and swift action among European nations to preserve their shared heritage and democratic values for generations to come.
