Memorial Service held in Stockholm for Cypriot victims on 50th anniversary of Turkish invasion

On Sunday, 21 July 2024, a Divine Liturgy was celebrated at Saint George’s Cathedral in Stockholm, served by Archimandrite Bartholomew Iatridis and presided over by His Eminence Metropolitan Cleopas of Sweden and All Scandinavia. The service was attended by His Excellency Mr. Solon Savva, the Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to Sweden.

Following the Divine Liturgy, a memorial service was held to honour the victims of the Cypriot tragedy. Addressing the congregation, Ambassador Solon Savva emphasised Cyprus’s commitment to finding a solution based on the UN’s parameters for a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality. He reiterated the principles of one sovereignty, one international personality, and one citizenship as non-negotiable and essential for resolving the Cyprus issue, stating, “We are working and will continue to work for a solution within the agreed parameters of the UN. These are the internationally agreed parameters and are non-negotiable principles for the solution of the Cyprus problem. And it is in these parameters that we will continue to move forward.”

Metropolitan Cleopas then spoke, highlighting the significance of the Gospel passage read during the service and reflecting on the 50th anniversary of the tragic events in Cyprus. He expressed his hope that the principles of International Law would soon bring about a resolution, ensuring the reunification of Cyprus. He prayed for peace, reconciliation, and prosperity for the entire Cypriot people.

Source: Metropolis of Sweden / orthodoxtimes.com