Athens, 11 September 2009

This Monday marks ten years since the untimely loss of a great Greek who served Hellenism with passion, Yiannos Kranidiotis, and six others, among whom was Yiannos’ only son, Nikolas.

We remember Yiannos for his vision and insight, for his words both just and pragmatic; for the sound judgement that guided his crucial analyses, decisions and initiatives, which transcended the boundaries of accepted, conventional thinking.

Yiannos envisioned and supported Cyprus’s European course, guided by his conviction that EU accession would make the resolution of the Cyprus problem feasible. That Cyprus’s accession could lead to the reunification of the island, within the framework of the European Union, so that all Cypriots – Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots alike – might enjoy the security of the European family. His vision – the vision of a true Cypriot and Greek patriot – was the best investment for a future of progress and development for the Republic of Cyprus.

He fought to consolidate the power of Hellenism, armed with his patience and persistence; his passionate belief in the value of unbiased dialogue. We remember him as a man of virtue, a man of the mind, a man of courage. We are the fortunate beneficiaries of his ideas, and Hellenism is stronger for his accomplishments.

Today, we honor the memory of Yiannos Kranidiotis. We are dedicated to the effort to achieve a viable, functional solution to the Cyprus issue – a solution to which Yiannos dedicated his life. We honor his memory, having learned from his thinking – perpetuating his political legacy. The void left by his untimely passing is difficult to fill.

Yiannos is a role-model and exemplar. History has already judged his emblematic presence and work, setting him among the great political figures of Greece. Those of us at the Foreign Ministry who knew him will carry him always in our hearts. We will honor him with reverence for his accomplishments.