Theresa Villiers, MP for Chipping Barnet, attended Democratic Rally UK’s Annual dinner. The main speaker was President of Democratic Rally, Averof Neophytou. Also in attendance were David Burrowes, MP for Enfield Southgate, Nick de Bois, MP for Enfield North, Mike Freer, MP for Finchley and Golders Green and Marina Yannakoudakis, MEP for London.
The Chairman of Democratic Rally UK, Andreas Papaevripides, organised the event which took place at Penridge Banqueting Suite in Bowes Road, N11. The event commemorated the life and achievements of the late President Glafcos Clerides.
Theresa addressed the meeting saying: “It is an honour to say a few words on behalf of my MP colleagues. Cyprus has suffered a sad loss with the recent passing away of President Glafcos Clerides. He was a great statesman and his loss marks the end of an era. He was the last European leader to see active service in World War II. His distinguished war record was just one of many great achievements in his life. It is a reminder that the many bonds between Britain and Cyprus include the fact that our two nations fought shoulder to shoulder in defence of freedom in World War II.”
“President Clerides was always a powerful advocate for a settlement in Cyprus. It is very sad that he did not live to see this come about. However, I know I speak for all the MPs and guests here in saying we will continue to do all we can to support Cypriots in their efforts to find a just, lasting and balanced solution in Cyprus which sees the island reunited once again.”