The unveiling ceremony for the monument dedicated to the Genocide of the Pontic Greeks took place on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, in Paralimni, in the presence of the President of the Republic, Mr. Nikos Christodoulides.

The monument, a work by sculptor Georgios Kikkotis, was erected in Paralimni with the support of the State and the Municipality of Paralimni – Deryneia, in collaboration with the “Temeteron” Cultural Association of Pontians of Famagusta and the “Nikos Kapetanidis” Action Association.

During the ceremony, which took place on the somber anniversary of the Genocide of the Pontic Greeks, remarks were delivered by Mr. Iakovos Kostidis, President of the “Temeteron” Cultural Association of Pontians of Famagusta, Mr. George Georgiadis, President of the “Nikos Kapetanidis” Action Association; Mr. George Nikoletos, Mayor of Paralimni–Deryneia; the President of the Republic, Mr. Nikos Christodoulides, and the sculptor, Mr. Georgios Kikkotis.

In his remarks, the President of the Republic expressed his deep emotion at the erection of the Monument, noting that it fulfills a promise made to our Pontic brothers and sisters and satisfies a request of great historical and symbolic significance. He also emphasized that, thanks to the prompt response of the Mayor of Paralimni – Deryneia, the Monument was erected within a year and now serves as a place of honor, prayer, and reflection, as well as a landmark for the Pontians of the Famagusta district, the residents, and every Greek who is dedicated to knowledge, remembrance, and responsibility.

For his part, the Mayor of Paralimni–Deryneia, Mr. George Nikoletos, expressed his emotion, noting that, as he said, the monument is being erected one year after the monument to the heroic martyrs Tassos Isaac and Solomos Solomos, thanking the government and all those who contributed to its approval, licensing, and construction.