Theresa Villiers, MP for Chipping Barnet, this week attended the opening of an exhibition of photos by Doros Partasides entitled "A Vision of Cyprus" in the House of Commons. The exhibition was sponsored by Matthew Offord, MP for Hendon and formally opened by Minister for Europe, David Lidington.
Speaking after the event, Theresa Villiers said: "It is great to be here supporting this wonderful exhibition by Doros Partasides. Doros has a long and distinguished record of photographing Cyprus but I think this exhibition is his best yet. It captures the outstanding scenic beauty of the island of Cyprus."
"As talks between the two sides in Cyprus get under way again, it is important that MPs have this exhibition to remind them of the crucial importance of supporting Cypriots in their efforts to find a just, lasting and balance settlement in Cyprus."
"The unjust division of Cyprus has continued for far too long and many of the friends of Cyprus turned out to support Doros's exhibition today. I am very grateful to my colleagues, Matthew Offord and David Lidington, for making this event possible. The Minister for Europe once more expressed the support of the UK government for the efforts being made in Cyprus to reach a settlement."
The opening ceremony took place on Monday. The guests attending included Andreas Papaevripedes (chairman of Democratic Rally UK), David Burrowes MP, Nick de Bois MP, Mike Gapes MP, Andy Love MP, His Excellency Euripides Evriviades (Cyprus High Commissioner), Cllr Lisa Rutter (former Mayor of Barnet), Andreas and Mary Karaolis and many other artists, journalists and leading members of the British Cypriot community.
The Prime Minister sent a message of support which was read out to the guests.