Zelensky Meets Archbishop of Cyprus, Highlights Shared Experiences
Photo: orthodoxtimes.com
NICOSIA, CYPRUS — President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky met Tuesday with Abp. George of Cyprus during his official visit to the island for the ceremonial launch of Cyprus’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Welcoming the Ukrainian leader, the Archbishop expressed hope rooted in Orthodox faith, saying that God “loves justice” and will provide help in time, while noting ongoing communication with Met. Epifaniy of the state-backed Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU). Zelensky thanked the Archbishop for the invitation and for the Church of Cyprus’s support, calling it especially meaningful as Ukraine continues to face war. He also recalled the Archbishop’s previous visits to Ukraine and Hagia Sophia and invited him to visit Kyiv, an invitation the Archbishop said he would “certainly” accept in the future.
The Archbishop described the meeting as very positive, drawing parallels between Ukraine and Cyprus as countries facing occupation, and said the issue was raised directly with Zelensky. During his visit, Zelensky is also expected to attend EU presidency events and meet senior EU officials.
Previously, the UOJ reported that a Ukrainian ambassador had met with Abp. Georgios about advancing the OCU's presence in Cyprus, which is in violation of the Tomos.
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