Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus’ EU presidency served as an opportunity for unity around a common vision, Deputy European Affairs Minister Marilena Raouna said on Monday as officials honoured sponsors for their contributions.
Presidency described as national effort
Raouna said Cyprus’ EU presidency journey started two-and-a-half years ago. She said the government had recognised from the outset the significance of the opportunity for Cyprus, describing the country as one of the smallest EU member states, part of the broader Middle East region, and the last member state under occupation.
Broad participation highlighted
Raouna said Cyprus’ civil service on the island and in Brussels, as well as all diplomatic missions, were involved in the presidency. She added that the effort also included the whole society, young people and schools.
Officials recognise sponsors
Director of the presidency’s secretariat Demetris Mavrommatis said the civil service, society and the economy as a whole contributed to a successful EU presidency. He said the organisations and businesses being honoured, along with other sponsors, contributed not only goods and services but also know-how, reliability and trust to what he described as a national effort with a strong European dimension.
Sponsors and contributions
The two major sponsors, Cyta and Ayia Napa Marina, and the two golden sponsors, EKO Cyprus and Coca-Cola HBC Cyprus, received honorary plaques and diplomas.
Cyta provided network services, mobile and electronic devices, while Ayia Napa Marina offered indoor and outdoor installations for presidency events. EKO Cyprus provided fuel and car cleaning services for vehicles used for the presidency, and Coca-Cola HBC Cyprus supplied bottled water and soft drinks during high-level meetings and other events.