The Guardian 5 March, 2008
Historic victory in Cyprus
Dear comrades,
On behalf of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Australia and on behalf of the large progressive Greek and Cypriot communities of our country I convey to you, to AKEL’s (the Progressive Party of the Working People of Cyprus) membership, to comrade Christofias personally and to the Cypriot people warm congratulations for the historic victory achieved in Sunday’s elections.
It is a unique case in the capitalist world for the General Secretary of a Communist Party to be elected to a country’s highest office and certainly an achievement for which AKEL and the whole popular, progressive movement of Cyprus will be justly proud.
We extend to you our sincere congratulations and best wishes for the successful application of your policies for the timely reunification of your divided country, the removal of all foreign troops and a peaceful and better life for all Cypriot people.
The people of Cyprus have high expectations of their new President and we are certain that AKEL’s tested ability in uniting the people for the solution of complex problems and its long experience in conducting and leading the people’s social and patriotic struggles, will provide the leadership needed to overcome all the obstacles and difficulties and bring about a just resolution of the complex Cyprus situation. At the same time we are confident that your Party’s leadership and popularity together with the work of Comrade Christofias as President of the Republic will ensure a more equitable distribution of the domestic product and the extension of the democratic liberties of the people of Cyprus.
With the election of comrade Christofias to the Presidency the Republic of Cyprus enters a new page in its eventful history which will lead to unification, not to further division. It will lead to the consolidation of the democratic processes and the all-sided social and economic development of your country.
Be assured, dear comrades, that in your efforts to achieve all these noble goals you will have the support of not only the people of Cyprus but millions of people in Australia and in other countries who have warmly welcomed your victory.
Yours in comradeship,
P Symon
General Secretary, Central Committee, Communist Party of Australia