The 31st Wine Festival has opened its gates in London along with a trade fair, organised every year by “Parikiaki” newspaper.
This two-day celebration “highlights Cyprus’ comparative advantages, culture and beauties and attracts foreign tourists to visit it” said Nicos Kouyialis, Minister of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment, who represented the government at the opening on Saturday.
Kouyialis noted that the Ministry collaborates with winemakers and wine grape growers to draft a multiannual national strategic plan on viticulture, which is hoped to give a boost to wines produced in Cyprus.
According to the Minister, between 2008 and 2013 a total of 20 mn euros were disbursed to Cyprus from European funds to implement the national program in support of the wine industry, whereas available funds for the period 2014-2018 reach 23,2 mn euros approximately.
The High Commissioner of Cyprus to the United Kingdom Euripides Evriviades stressed the importance of wine for Cyprus and highlighted the importance of the community in promoting Cypriot purposes.
The General Secretary of AKEL Andros Kyprianou also congratulated the festival for keeping this event going for so many years.
President of the National Federation of Cypriots in the UK Peter Droussiotis said he was proud of the continuing success of the Wine Festival.
Andreas Papaevripides, President of the World Federation of Overseas Cypriots (POMAK) said the Wine Festival promotes Cyprus` culture abroad.
