National Strategy on Cyprus Diaspora | 37 4. Our culture Our language, history, culture, traditions are fundamental characteristics of every Cypriot. These are the traits that connect Cypriots around the world, so their preservation and strengthening is not only important, but necessary. Our cultural identity is a constituent element of Cyprus Diaspora, which is why it receives a special mention in the context of the National Strategy. Only through the cultivation of the Greek and Cypriot identity will our Diaspora continue to exist. It is not only the Cyprus Government and world organisations and federations that have assumed an important role in promoting our culture, but also the Church itself, by constantly sustaining these efforts. To preserve our identity, learning the Greek language is of primary importance. The value and significance of the Greek language is reaffirmed by the establishment of the 9th of February, the day of commemoration of the national poet Dionysios Solomos, as the International Greek Language Day. The International Greek Language Day provides a first-class opportunity to raise awareness among Greeks everywhere, but especially among the new generation of Diaspora, so that they can comprehend the greatness and richness of the Greek language. It is indispensable that the young generation continue to learn and use the Greek language, so that they can carry on the work of Diaspora organisations. Promoting the learning of Greek within our Diaspora is a goal of the highest priority in order to avoid the complete assimilation and cultural alienation of Cypriots abroad. Because of the great importance of the Greek language, the Cyprus Government with the cooperation of the Greek State promote a series of Greek teaching programmes especially for our expatriates. To this end, Memoranda of Cooperation have been signed with universities and other educational institutions for the provision of short-term, long-distance Greek language courses, at various levels, for adults and minors. These programmes also cover other aspects of culture, such as modern Cypriot history, traditional dances and even general information on Cypriot culture, customs and traditions. Part of this endeavour is the creation and operation of the "Learn Your Roots" platform, addressed to Cypriots of Diaspora from preschool age, with the aim of forging and maintaining ties with their language, history, traditions, culture and roots. Through the platform, our expatriates will be able to attend courses and study material on the Greek language, Cypriot history, traditional cuisine, traditional dances and our culture and traditions in general. Furthermore, youth-oriented literary and student competitions are announced from time to time in order to cultivate interest in Hellenism, while strengthening cooperation and communication between student communities around the world. Undoubtedly, organised groups of our Diaspora engage with happenings, festivals, concerts, artistic events, conferences, workshops and lectures in an effort to highlight the cultural heritage of Cyprus, to
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