On July 3, 2024, the Russian Center for Science and Culture in Nicosia hosted the opening ceremony of the national branch of the International Russophile Movement (MDR), which was attended by Cypriots who advocate the development of cooperation with Russia, as well as for maintaining friendship between the Cypriot and Russian peoples. The guests of honor of the event were representatives from Bulgaria, Romania and the Czech Republic.

Mikhail Filaniotis, President of the Cyprus-Russia Friendship and Cultural Relations Society, headed the new Cyprus branch of the MDR.

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the Republic of Cyprus M.M.Zyazikov addressed the participants with greetings. He expressed support for the new MDR branch.

Greetings were also sent to the meeting from Maria Zakharova, Director of the Information and Press Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, and Archpriest Pavel Povalyaev, rector of the Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker.

This significant event was celebrated by the guests of honor of the MDR, including the Bulgarian public figure, Secretary General of the International Russophile Movement Nikolai Malinov.

A musical gift to the participants of the event was a concert from the PIONEER Educational and Methodological Center, whose students arranged an unforgettable journey through the musical and cultural traditions of Russia and Cyprus.

At the end of the ceremony, a press conference was held at which new members of the movement were interested in the plans and future projects of the MDR.

At the end of the evening, the guests spent time in a friendly atmosphere of a festive buffet.

🇷🇺🇨🇾 The opening of the Cyprus branch of the International Russophile Movement was an important step in strengthening cultural and friendly ties between Russia and Cyprus. We believe that the new MDR office will contribute to the further development and strengthening of mutual understanding between our peoples.