Cyprus Defence Minister Palmas Marks Ochi Day at Thessaloniki Parade

Thessaloniki, Greece. Cypriot Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas attended the Ochi Day commemorations on Wednesday, describing Greece’s refusal of October 28, 1940, as a defining moment in Greek history and a symbol of resistance with global significance.

Message on the 86th anniversary

In a social media post marking the 86th anniversary, Palmas said the Greek people’s decision not to yield to fascist Italy sent a strong message against totalitarianism, expansionism and contempt for human dignity.

He noted that the events of 1940 left a lasting duty to protect historical memory, uphold democratic ideals and reinforce unity among Greeks. According to Palmas, that duty also involves working for “a Europe and a world where freedom, peace and justice are non-negotiable values and firm foundations”.

He ended the message by sending his wishes to Greeks worldwide.

Parade in Thessaloniki

Palmas is among the officials present at the large military parade held in Thessaloniki on Wednesday. The parade closes three days of celebrations that mark the city’s liberation from Ottoman rule on October 26, 1912, the feast of its patron saint, Saint Demetrios, and the anniversary of October 28, 1940.

The event, held along the city’s waterfront, is to be attended by Greek President Konstantinos Tasoulas, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, opposition leader Nikos Androulakis, Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias and European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas. Military officials and other dignitaries will also be present.

Programme

A wreath-laying ceremony is scheduled for 10.15am, and the military parade will start at 11am. This year, for the first time, military units will march ahead of the civilian groups.

The parade is expected to finish with a precision flying display by an F-16 fighter jet from the Greek Air Force’s Zeus demonstration team, flown by Squadron Leader Christos-Paris Charitos.