The life and career of Spyros Kyprianou during critical periods for Cyprus make him a valuable, authentic historical source, stated the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, on Wednesday. He was speaking at the launch of the book “Spyros Kyprianou – In the Battle of History, As I Lived It (Vol. 1: 1932-1959)”, held at the Archbishop Makarios III Foundation Hall in the Holy Archbishopric of Cyprus. The book was edited, researched, and documented by journalist George Tsalakos.
President Christodoulides noted that “every book that deals with the history of our homeland is of unique interest because, among other things, it helps us understand significant events better and draw lessons necessary for addressing today’s challenges.”
He emphasized that the book serves this purpose to the fullest extent, as it draws upon the experiences and perspective of one of Cyprus’s most significant political figures of the 20th century.
The President highlighted Kyprianou’s historical significance and political career, noting that his role during pivotal moments for Cyprus underscores his value as an authentic historical source.
Spyros Kyprianou, he said, aligned his life with public service and justice, leaving a legacy marked by the monumental task of rebuilding Cyprus after the devastation of 1974 and taking the helm of the state following the death of the first President of the Republic of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios.
The President also referred to Kyprianou’s accomplishments as Cyprus’s first Foreign Minister, including landmark UN Security Council resolutions such as that of March 1964. These resolutions, he noted, remain unique legal, political, and diplomatic tools that safeguard the Republic of Cyprus’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
The first volume of Kyprianou’s biography, Christodoulides explained, sheds light on a critical period that can be seen as the genesis of both the Cypriot state and the Cyprus problem.
Through its pages, meticulously compiled by George Tsalakos, the book captures the social, political, and economic environment in Cyprus and internationally during the British colonial period.
Addressing Tsalakos, President Christodoulides concluded, “We eagerly await the next volumes.”
(CNA/ZSO/MK)
