American Hellenic Institute

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American Hellenic Institute Expresses Its Deep Sorrow on Passing of George Paraskevaides
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: GEORGIA ECONOMOU
December 7, 2007—No. 82 (202) 785-8430

American Hellenic Institute Expresses Its Deep Sorrow on Passing of George Paraskevaides

It was with deep sorrow that we learned of the passing of George Paraskevaides of Cyprus.

On behalf of all our members and staff, we extend our heartfelt sympathies and condolences to his wife Thelma, his children and family, and to the people of Cyprus for their great loss.

Words are inadequate to express what George Paraskevaides has meant to the American Hellenic Institute since its inception in 1974.  His support over the past thirty years and unyielding commitment to our efforts in support of a free Cyprus within the context of the rule of law during these years has not only helped to sustain us, but has been the catalyst that has helped us to grow and expand our scope and content.  His belief in the importance of the role of the United States in achieving a just and viable settlement of the Cyprus problem was central to his thinking.

George’s love for his beloved Cyprus was pure and deep. And he, more than anyone, understood the injustice that the people of Cyprus have been forced to endure because of Turkey’s invasion and division of the island in 1974.  He fought tirelessly for and championed every effort over the past 34 years that had as its goal the unification of Cyprus.

While his business achievements were legendary, they are only overshadowed by his world renowned philanthropy.  George supported many such endeavors that helped the less fortunate, especially the children.  He understood that one of the most important qualities that we can posses is to help those who are in need.  This is one of his greatest legacies.

His recognitions were many.  For us who had the opportunity to visit with George in his modest office in Cyprus, we look back with fond memories of his intriguing stories, such as the building of the airstrip during WWII in record time.  And George never let you leave his office without a map showing how important Cyprus is and, of course, a gift of a disc containing a relief of the famous “Kyrenia Ship.”

While George physically is no longer with us, the testament of his life will endure forever in the many causes he supported, the many lives he touched, and his total and uncompromising love for his beloved Cyprus and his longing to see it whole and free again. We at the AHI can make this promise – we will never stop in our efforts to make his dream a reality for all Cypriots.

May His Memory be Eternal!

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For additional information, please contact Georgia Economou at (202) 785-8430 or georgia@ahiworld.org. For general information regarding the activities of AHI, please view our Web site at https://www.ahiworld.org.