State memorial service held for Makarios at Kykkos monastery

A memorial service was held on Sunday at Kykkos Monastery for Archbishop Makarios III, the first President of the Republic of Cyprus, who passed away on August 3, 1977.

The service was attended by Archbishop Georgios, President Nikos Christodoulides, and other officials, including leaders from parliamentary parties, security forces, and law enforcement.

In his statement, Labour Minister Yiannis Panayiotou reflected on Makarios’ significant impact on Cyprus. Panayiotou noted that Makarios was a global figure with universal impact, representing the tradition and culture of Greek history and Christianity. He emphasised that Makarios understood the constraints of international politics and diplomacy and was able to distinguish between the ideal and the feasible.

Panayiotou said Makarios’ bold decisions, including his leadership in the struggle for self-determination, acceptance of independence, and his role in negotiating a federation.

“He dared to lead, accept independence, and negotiate federation,” Panayiotou noted, underscoring Makarios’ ability to make pragmatic choices within the constraints of his time.