Poland in Cyprus

Loukis Papaphilippou's ties with Poland began in the 1980s when he supported the repressed activists of the "Solidarity" movement. In recognition of this engagement he was awarded the honorary distinction "For Merits for the Union of Veterans of the Republic of Poland and Former Political Prisoners".

Loukis Papaphilippou promoted education of  Modern Greek and knowledge about the Hellenic culture in Poland. He sponsored the scholarship and establishment of the Chair of Greek Studies at the University of Warsaw. Thanks to his lectures, the Polish students could learn the modern Cypriot dialect. Loukis Papaphilippou was the first Cypriot poet whose collection of poems was published in Poland.

In 1993, Loukis Papaphilippou was appointed Honorary Consul of the Republic of Poland in the Republic of Cyprus, and subsequently in 2001 - Honorary Consul General. He held these positions for 25 years - until 2018, when his son Leandros took over the duties.

Loukis Papaphilippou was a passionate of Poland and the Polish people. We could always rely on his precious support, kindness and good advice. His achievements have been acknowledged by the highest authorities of the Republic of Poland. He was awarded the Knight's Cross and the Commander's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland. In addition, in recognition of his engagement in promoting Poland abroad, Loukis Papaphilippou was awarded the honorary distinction "Bene Merito" by the Polish Minister of Foreign Affairs.

On behalf of former ambassadors of the Republic of Poland to the Republic of Cyprus as well as employees of the Polish Embassy in Nicosia I wish to express sincerest sympathy to Leandros, Antigone, Elena and the whole family.

 

Dear Friend! You always had Poland in your heart and we will never forget you!

 

Irena Lichnerowicz-Augustyn

Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to the Republic of Cyprus