“April 21, 1967 it was one of the darkest days in our recent history. It violently interrupted the democratic course of the country, brutally catalyzing freedoms and rights. He policed ​​ideas, banning and prosecuting. It isolated Greece from the international environment and caused the tragedy of Cyprus, an unhealed wound for Hellenism”, said in her message the President of the Republic Katerina Sakellaropoulou, on the occasion of the 57th anniversary of the military coup of April 21, 1967.

Ms. Sakellaropoulou emphasized that “the return to democratic normality, fifty years ago, was the starting point of the longest period of peace and prosperity that the country has known. Human rights were secured and the rule of law was consolidated. The democratic consciousness and state tradition of our people was restored. Greece became a member and consolidated its presence in the European Union, confirming its position among its partners and allies and being a guarantor of security and peace in the eastern Mediterranean and the wider region.

“Despite these conquests, today’s anniversary reminds us that the priceless good of democracy is not self-evident. Democracy is claimed, conquered and preserved every day. In today’s juncture, where wars and multidimensional crises test the endurance of the citizen, this requirement becomes even more imperative. It is the duty of all of us, individual and collective, to constantly defend it”, added the PtD