International Rotary Institute held in Cyprus marked with huge success

• Important humanitarian issues were discussed, in the presence of 300 dignitaries, from 40 countries

With great success and with the participation of over 300 dignitaries, a gathering of Rotary officials from 40 countries took place in Limassol, for the first time in the history of Cyprus Rotary, within the framework of the Zone 21 Institute. Specifically, dignitaries from European and Middle Eastern countries and Africa were in Cyprus between November 9-13.

The Institute tackled critical and current issues such as Disease Prevention, Basic Education, Environment, Girls Empowerment, Diversity, Equity, Social Inclusion and Partnership Development. At the same time, the participants had the opportunity for discussions and networking, exchange of ideas and information about the developments, initiatives, and priorities of Rotary International.

The choice of Cyprus as the host of the Institute and the presence of the President of Rotary International Jennifer Jones in our country was of particular importance, placing Cyprus Rotary, and our country at the forefront of Rotary around the world.

Jennifer Jones: Rotary is deeply rooted in Cyprus

On her visit to Cyprus, Jennifer Jones noted: ‘The institute was such a wonderful opportunity to connect with friends from more than forty countries. Many of these countries are from conflict areas and it punctuates so profoundly how we build world peace through understanding. Every time we attend a meeting like this, we leave with more friends than when we arrived. The heart of Cyprus touched each of us, as the Rotary family is alive, and well-rooted on this island.’

In the framework of the work of the Conference, Jones, together with Cypriot and foreign delegates, had the opportunity to visit the fire-ravaged mountainous area of ​​Larnaca, specifically the village of Ora, where they planted trees. ‘The heart of Cyprus touched each of us who attended, and the Rotary family is alive and well on this island nation. Our visit to Ora village to see the work of our Rotary family in helping to rebuild following the fires was incredibly impactful.’, commented J. Jones.

Equally important was the visit to the Karaiskakio Foundation, which is actively supported by the Cyprus Rotary. Recently, the Rotary Clubs of Cyprus in collaboration with other Rotary clubs abroad and the Rotary Foundation purchased equipment for the Children's Cancer Diagnostic Laboratory, worth 400,000 dollars. The state-of-the-art laboratory determines the type of cancer in children and young adults and recommends treatment that minimizes collateral damage from cancer treatment. Jennifer Jones expressed her admiration and congratulated the Karaiskakio Foundation for its work and world leading achievements.