Disy leader Annita Demetriou said on Wednesday that “patriotism means working for a better homeland”, as she called for a “free and reunified Cyprus”.

Speaking at an event in Larnaca to mark the October 28 Oxi anniversary, Dimitriou said the defence of national interests requires “strategy, boldness and determination”.

On the Cyprus problem, she repeated the party’s call for a Cyprus “without occupation troops or outdated guarantees”.

She said Turkey “cannot expect preferential treatment from the European Union while it occupies European territory and breaches international law”.

Demetriou recalled the Greek “No” of 1940 and said the resistance that followed showed that freedom, dignity and the defence of law depend on “the strength of a people’s resolve” rather than on the size of a state or the superiority of its weapons.

She also cited Cyprus’ contribution to the Second World War, in which more than 30,000 volunteers took part.

Dimitriou placed particular weight on the state’s duty to young people, saying the government should offer “quality education, affordable housing and decent salaries”, along with “real opportunities for professional and personal development”.

She described the Oxi anniversary as more than an occasion for historical remembrance, saying it is also a reminder of responsibility towards future generations.

“Let us not compromise with half a homeland. Let us not accept injustice as normality”, she concluded.

There can be no compromise on matters of sovereignty and national dignity, President Nikos Christodoulides said on Wednesday, as Cyprus marked the 86th anniversary of October 28, 1940, with commemorative events and parades across the island.

Speaking to reporters following the Ochi Day parade in Nicosia, Christodoulides drew on the lessons of Greece’s historic resistance against fascist Italy during the Second World War, stressing that the values defended in 1940 remain relevant today.

“There are many messages from the epic of 1940 and the resistance of the Greeks. What I would like to focus on is that when it comes to sovereignty and dignity, there can be no compromises or concessions,” he said.

“Whatever the cost, our brothers in Greece demonstrated that on these matters there can be no compromises or concessions.”

The president also highlighted the contribution of Cypriots to the Allied war effort, noting that almost 20,000 had fought alongside Greece and the Allied forces during the Second World War, with many losing their lives.

He said their sacrifices were an important part of the anniversary’s significance, stressing that honouring such occasions also meant following the example set by the Greeks in 1940, adapted to present-day circumstances.

Christodoulides congratulated those who participated in Wednesday’s parade, including students, representatives of occupied municipalities and communities, and organised groups.

He also welcomed the Lyceum of Greek Women from Kavala and the Corfu Philharmonic, which took part in the commemorations.

The president had earlier attended the official church service marking the anniversary before taking the salute at the parade in Nicosia.

He concluded by extending his wishes to Greeks in Cyprus, Greece and around the world.

The anniversary, widely known as Ochi Day, commemorates Greece’s historic refusal to surrender to an Italian ultimatum on October 28, 1940, and the resistance that followed against fascism and, later, Nazism.

In Nicosia, a celebratory church service was held at the Apostle Barnabas Cathedral, officiated by Archbishop Georgios, in the presence of President Nikos Christodoulides, House president Annita Demetriou, Education Minister Athena Michaelidou, Greek ambassador Konstantinos Kollias and members of the political and military leadership. Agriculture Minister Christos Senekis delivered the commemorative address.

Similar events were held in towns and communities across the government-controlled areas.

The government was represented by Transport Minister Evi Tsolaki in Limassol, government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis in Paphos, Deputy Minister to the President Irene Piki in Larnaca and Deputy Tourism Minister Kostas Koumis in Paralimni.

The message of unity behind Greece’s historic “No” of October 28, 1940, remains more relevant than ever for Cyprus, which continues to live with the consequences of the Turkish invasion and occupation, government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said on Wednesday.

Speaking to reporters following an Ochi Day church service at the Metropolitan Church of Ayios Theodoros in Paphos, Letymbiotis paid tribute to the struggles of the Greek people against fascism and highlighted the importance of passing their legacy on to future generations.

“Today we honour the heroic ‘No’ in a city, Paphos, which, it is worth remembering, protested against fascism in 1941 and supported the struggle of the Greeks, through the then locum tenens of the archiepiscopal throne,” he said.

He described the anniversary as a reminder not only of the struggle against fascism and the right of nations to sovereignty, but also of the unity demonstrated by the Greek people.

“The message of unity cannot fail to be relevant in a country that has been experiencing illegal occupation for 52 years as a result of the brutal invasion,” he said.

Letymbiotis stressed that the lessons of 1940 should serve as a reminder never to abandon just struggles or the defence of national interests, values and ideals upheld by previous generations.

“This is the message we must preserve and pass on to future generations: we must never abandon just struggles, never abandon the struggles that defend our national interests and the values and ideals our ancestors fought for,” he said.

He concluded by extending his wishes to Greece and Greeks everywhere, expressing the hope that “next year will find us with a free homeland”.

Following the service, Letymbiotis laid a wreath at the October 28 memorial in Paphos before taking the salute at the student parade marking the anniversary.

Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas met his Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias in Thessaloniki on Wednesday, with discussions focusing on the latest international security developments and defence cooperation between Cyprus and Greece, as the two countries marked the 86th anniversary of October 28, 1940.

Palmas is representing the Cyprus government at the Ochi Day celebrations in Thessaloniki, which culminate in a major military parade attended by Greece’s political and military leadership.

“I had the pleasure of meeting today in Thessaloniki with the Defence Minister of the Republic of Cyprus, Vasilis Palmas, on the anniversary of October 28, 1940,” Dendias said in a social media post.

“We discussed the latest international developments concerning security issues and defence cooperation between our countries,” he added.

Speaking separately to ‘Defence Redefined’in Thessaloniki, Palmas said defence cooperation between Cyprus and Greece had moved “from slogans to political action”, pointing to what he described as the permanent presence of Greek F-16 fighter jets and a Greek Navy vessel in Cyprus.

He said cooperation between Athens and Nicosia was excellent at both political and military levels, highlighting bilateral agreements and joint programmes, including those under the EU’s SAFE defence financing scheme. He also described the participation of Cypriot commandos in the Thessaloniki military parade as both symbolic and a practical demonstration of the close ties between the two countries.

Turning to defence procurement, Palmas referred to Cyprus’ cooperation with France and Israel, confirming that a contract for the acquisition of a new offshore patrol vessel from Israel had been signed on October 26. He added that further Israeli defence equipment programmes were being planned to strengthen the National Guard’s deterrent capabilities.

Palmas on Wednesday described Greece’s historic “No” of October 28, 1940, as a defining moment in Greek history and a symbol of resistance with worldwide significance, as he attended Ochi Day commemorations in Thessaloniki.

In a message on social media marking the 86th anniversary, Palmas said the Greek people’s refusal to surrender to fascist Italy sent a powerful message against totalitarianism, expansionism and disregard for human dignity.

He said the events of 1940 left behind an enduring responsibility to preserve historical memory, defend democratic ideals and strengthen unity among Greeks.

That responsibility, he added, extended to working towards “a Europe and a world where freedom, peace and justice are non-negotiable values and firm foundations.”

Palmas concluded by extending his wishes to Greeks around the world.

The Cyprus presidency also marked the anniversary, paying tribute to the Greek people’s resistance against fascism and their contribution to the wider Allied struggle during the Second World War.

“We honour the epic of 1940, the unparalleled resistance of the Greek people and the Greek nation against fascism, which marked a milestone in the broader effort to halt the Axis powers,” the presidency said.

It added that the events of 1940 demonstrated that “the dignity and pride of a people cannot be measured by the strength of weapons.”

The foreign ministry similarly described October 28 as a day of determination and resistance, when Greeks stood united in defence of their freedom and national independence.

It also highlighted the contribution of Cypriots who supported Greece during the war.

“Cypriots stood alongside Greece then, supporting the struggle in every possible way,” the ministry said.

“We honour the memory of those who defended the ideals of democracy. Our duty remains to continue the struggle for freedom,” it added.

The commemorations in Thessaloniki mark the culmination of three days of celebrations honouring the city’s liberation from Ottoman rule on October 26, 1912, the feast of its patron saint, Saint Demetrios, and the anniversary of October 28, 1940.

The military parade along Megalou Alexandrou Avenue is being attended by Greek President Konstantinos Tasoulas, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, opposition leader Nikos Androulakis, Defence Minister Nikos Dendias and European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas, alongside Palmas and other dignitaries.

The programme includes a wreath-laying ceremony at 10.15am, followed by the parade at 11am.

For the first time this year, military contingents will march ahead of civilian groups, with the parade scheduled to conclude with a precision flying display by an F-16 fighter jet from the Greek Air Force’s Zeus demonstration team, piloted by Squadron Leader Christos-Paris Charitos.

A tradition passed down through generations was revived once again in Tillyria, where students marked the anniversary of October 28, 1940, by forming the word “OXI” (Ochi, meaning No) with fire.

In a statement, Kato Pyrgos community leader and chairman of the Tillyria communities cluster, Nikos Kleanthous, highlighted the enduring significance of the historic Greek refusal to surrender to fascist Italy in 1940, describing it as a symbol of resistance that remains relevant today.

He said the custom had been preserved from generation to generation, taking on particular significance in Tillyria, where historical memory and the spirit of resistance form an important part of the region’s collective identity.

Kleanthous congratulated the students for keeping the tradition alive, expressing pride in the younger generation for continuing to honour the anniversary and its message.

The lessons of October 28, 1940, remain relevant to Cyprus as the island continues to face the consequences of the Turkish invasion and occupation, Education Minister Athena Michaelidou said on Tuesday evening.

Speaking at an event marking the anniversary of Ochi Day at the Omonia Aradippou club, Michaelidou drew parallels between Greece’s historic resistance to fascism and Cyprus’ continuing struggle for reunification.

“For more than 52 years, our country has been living with the consequences of the illegal Turkish invasion and continuing occupation. Our own ‘No’ to the faits accomplis of the invasion, our own ‘No’ to forgetting and accepting injustice, is our daily struggle,” she said.

“With faith in international law, but above all through our internal unity, we continue to pursue a reunified, free, modern and secure Cyprus for all its lawful residents.”

Michaelidou said President Nikos Christodoulides had made ending the current situation an absolute priority, pursuing diplomatic efforts, making use of Cyprus’ EU membership and strengthening strategic international alliances to secure the resumption of negotiations.

She said the objective remained a viable, functional and just settlement of the Cyprus problem, based on United Nations resolutions and European Union principles, which would free the island from occupying troops and outdated systems of guarantees.

Turning to education, Michaelidou said the ministry’s primary objective was to transform historical memory into a living experience for younger generations.

“We cultivate the values of a free individual in our schools every day,” she said, adding that emphasis was being placed on developing skills, research and critical thinking.

She described education as the strongest foundation for the progress and future of Cyprus and Hellenism as a whole.

Cyprus is marking the 86th anniversary of October 28, 1940, on Wednesday with church services and parades across the island, as political leaders and parties pay tribute to those who fought against fascism and the Axis powers during the Second World War.

The anniversary, widely known as Ochi Day, commemorates Greece’s historic refusal to surrender to an Italian ultimatum on October 28, 1940, and the resistance that followed against fascism and, later, Nazism.

In Nicosia, a celebratory church service will be held at 10am at the Apostle Barnabas Cathedral, officiated by Archbishop Georgios, in the presence of President Nikos Christodoulides, House President Annita Demetriou, Education Minister Athena Michaelidou, Greek Ambassador Konstantinos Kollias and members of the political and military leadership.

Agriculture Minister Christos Senekis will deliver the commemorative address.

At 11am, Christodoulides and the Greek ambassador will take the salute at the parade outside the Greek embassy, with contingents of war veterans, university and college students, secondary school pupils, scouts, associations and organisations taking part.

Similar events will be held in towns and communities across the government-controlled areas.

The government will be represented by Transport Minister Evi Tsolaki in Limassol, government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis in Paphos, Deputy Minister to the President Irene Piki in Larnaca and Deputy Tourism Minister Kostas Koumis in Paralimni.

Meanwhile, political parties issued statements marking the anniversary, paying tribute to the sacrifices of those who fought in 1940 while drawing parallels with present-day challenges, particularly the continuing division of Cyprus.

Disy described October 28 as one of the most significant milestones in modern Greek history, saying the courage and determination demonstrated by the Greek people remain an enduring example for future generations.

The party also paid tribute to Greek Cypriots who fought during the Second World War and served alongside Allied forces, describing their contribution as an inseparable part of the island’s historical memory.

For Cyprus, Disy said, the anniversary carries particular significance as long as the island remains under Turkish occupation.

“With unity, responsibility and a firm commitment to European values, we continue our efforts for a free, secure and reunified Cyprus,” the party said.

Diko similarly emphasised the importance of the historic Greek refusal to surrender, describing the events of October 1940 as a demonstration of a people’s determination to defend their independence and dignity, even when faced with overwhelming odds.

“Eighty-six years later, we honour all those who fought and sacrificed themselves, writing one of the most glorious chapters in the history of Hellenism,” the party said.

Drawing parallels with Cyprus, Diko said the lessons of 1940 remain particularly relevant given the continuing consequences of the Turkish invasion and occupation.

It accused Turkey of pursuing objectives contrary to international law and United Nations resolutions, stressing that the struggle for the liberation and reunification of Cyprus must continue through political responsibility, unity and a clear strategy.

The party said defending the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus remains a non-negotiable priority, while acknowledging that achieving these objectives requires more than simply invoking international law.

“The lessons of 1940 are not that difficulties can be overcome easily, but that even in the most difficult circumstances, a people must never abandon its principles, rights and just demands,” Diko said.

Akel focused on the anti-fascist significance of the anniversary, paying tribute to the Greek people’s resistance against the Italian invasion and the subsequent struggle against Nazi occupation.

The party highlighted the role of the Greek National Resistance, particularly the EAM-ELAS movement, and commemorated those killed in battle, executed by occupying forces or sent to Nazi concentration camps.

It also remembered victims of Nazi atrocities in Kalavryta, Distomo, Kaisariani and Kokkinia, alongside those who died from hunger and deprivation during the occupation of Greece.

Akel placed particular emphasis on the contribution of thousands of Cypriot volunteers who fought against fascism during the Second World War, recalling its Central Committee’s decision on June 16, 1943, encouraging party members and officials to volunteer for military service.

The party warned that the lessons of October 28 remain relevant amid what it described as the re-emergence of fascism in Europe and internationally, through nationalism, racism and attempts to distort historical events.

“October 28 reminds us that fascism is not invincible,” Akel said, stressing that its defeat was achieved through the struggles and sacrifices of ordinary people.

Elam, meanwhile, paid tribute specifically to the historic “No” of Ioannis Metaxas to the ultimatum delivered by the Italian ambassador on October 28, 1940.

Describing the anniversary as one of the most glorious in Greek history, the party praised the bravery of Greek soldiers who fought to defend their homeland.

Alma – Citizens for Cyprus also described October 28 as a symbol of national dignity and resistance to fascism. However, it also criticised President Nikos Christodoulides’ handling of the Cyprus problem, warning that his “policy of illusions” appeared to be reaching its end, with the risk of a dangerous deadlock in which responsibility could be shared equally between the two communities rather than attributed to Turkey.

Direct Democracy Cyprus highlighted Cyprus’ contribution to the Second World War, noting that more than 12,000 Cypriots enlisted in the Cyprus Regiment of the British Army, while others volunteered for the Greek armed forces. It said hundreds lost their lives and more than 2,000 were taken prisoner.

The Green Party – Citizens’ Cooperation said October 28 was not only a day of historical remembrance but also a reminder that democracy, freedom and human rights cannot be taken for granted and require constant protection.

The Old Philharmonic of Corfu will take part in the 28 Oxi Day parade in Nicosia on Wednesday.

According to the parade programme, the band will gather on Heilonos street before joining the historical parade of student youth, and performing the Greek national anthem, the ‘Hymn to Liberty’.

In June 1864 the Corfu band played the melody to welcome King George I, himself of Danish descent, whereafter the young monarch adopted the music, and the next year in 1865 it was officially recognised as the Greek national anthem.

The Philharmonic Society of Corfu, known as the “Old Philharmonic”, was founded on September 12, 1840

Its creation followed a ban by the British administration on the British army band taking part in Orthodox religious events, notably the procession of the relic of Saint Spyridon, the island’s patron saint.

Oxi Day marks the Greek rejection of an Italian ultimatum on 28 October 1940, when the Italian ambassador in Athens, Emanuele Grazzi, presented Greek prime minister Ioannis Metaxas with a demand for Italian troops to be allowed to occupy unspecified strategic points in Greece.

Metaxas is recorded as answering in French with the words “Alors, c’est la guerre”, (‘Then it is war’).

Italian forces crossed the border from Albania, however Greek troops halted their advance and pushed the Italians back deep into Albanian territory in the following weeks.

Following Benito Mussolini’s humiliation, who at the start of the offensive had remarked that he “would be having coffee on the Parthenon by lunchtime”, Nazi Germany intervened in April 1941 and Greece was occupied.