OFFICIAL VISIT: Archbishop of America in Cyprus

The Archbishop was welcomed at the airport by Agriculture Minister Nicos Kougialis and Bishop Chrysostomos of Kition.

Kougialis expressed the government`s joy for the visit, adding that the Archbishop plays an important role as regards the Cyprus problem and issues related to the Hellenes.

Bishop Chrysostomos said that the Archbishop comes to Cyprus as "an angel of peace, a very close friend of our country and of the Cyprus Church", adding that Cypriots are grateful to him for his support and the work he does in the United States.

In his statements, Archbishop Demetrios said he feels honoured for the invitation, describing his visit as a "pilgrimage".

He said that Cyprus is a holy island and has offered a lot to civilization and humanity throughout the centuries but has also suffered and is still suffering under the Turkish occupation.

Archbishop of America also said that Cyprus gives a lesson of strength and courage, patriotism and Orthodoxy.

He assured that when he and his entourage return to America, they will have a clearer picture and will continue their struggle for Cyprus.