Nicosia, Cyprus - The worldwide launch of the special regional edition of "Diplomaticos Genios" cigars, dedicated to the territory of the Phoenicia company, the largest distributor of Cuban cigars in the world, began the celebration day for the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Cuba and the Republic of Cyprus.
The event was attended by distinguished personalities from the governmental, diplomatic, and business spheres of Cyprus, including the Minister of Health, Michael Damianou; the Deputy Minister of Culture, Lina Kassanioudou; the Commissioner for the Environment, Antonia Theodosiou; the Permanent Secretary of the Foreign Ministry, Andreas Kakouris; and the head of the President's Diplomatic Office representing the President of the Republic, Doros Venezis.
The diplomatic corps was widely represented, led by the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of Lebanon, Claude El Hajal, along with ambassadors from more than fifteen countries, including India, Serbia, Slovakia, Australia, Russia, China, Palestine, Iran, and several Gulf states. Members of the Cypriot parliament also attended, including representatives of the Cuba-Cyprus Friendship Group and leaders of political parties such as AKEL and Volt.
During his speech, the Cuban Ambassador emphasized that diplomatic relations between the two countries were established on November 22, 1960, with Cuba being one of the first countries to recognize Cyprus as a sovereign state. "Since that moment, our countries have walked together, supporting each other in difficult times," he noted.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of "Diplomaticos Genios" cigars, an exclusive regional edition for the Phoenicia company, the largest distributor of Cuban cigars in the world, presented for the first time in the history of this brand in cabinet boxes of 50 units, marking a milestone in the Cuban tobacco tradition. The Ambassador especially thanked the Phoenicia Group for their commitment to promoting Cuban products.
The evening was enlivened by Cuban musician Salvador Rodríguez, who delighted attendees with interpretations of traditional Cuban music, creating an atmosphere that reflected the warmth of relations between the two countries.
The event marks the beginning of a year of celebrations that will include various cultural, academic, and diplomatic activities designed to highlight and strengthen bilateral relations between Cuba and Cyprus on their 65th anniversary (EmbaCuba Cyprus).