Address by the Minister of Health of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr Michael Damianos, at the opening ceremony of the 12th International Medical Congress

It is a great pleasure for me to address you today on the occasion of the opening ceremony of the 12th International Multithematic Biomedical Congress (IMBMC). This prestigious Congress has been organised by the Medical School of the European University of Cyprus (EUC) in collaboration with the Pancyprian Medical Association and under the auspices of the Ministry of Health. The high-calibre Congress has established itself as an international event celebrating the present and future of science, research, and innovation. The ambitious and comprehensive program includes presentations, workshops, and discussions covering a wide range of topics in health sciences, including exercise cardiology, chronic disease, neuroscience, biology, clinical genetics, environmental health, robotic surgery, and many more.

Distinguished scientists and world-renowned experts in their respective fields will share with us their latest research, guiding us towards more effective future healthcare policies based on solid scientific evidence. This conference provides a platform for exchanging best practices, developing innovative ideas, and fostering networking and collaboration among the scientific community, both locally and internationally. Whatever your area of interest may be, I am confident that you will leave this Congress equipped with new knowledge and skills, having enjoyed the valuable exchange with friends and colleagues.

The EUC boasts state-of-the-art facilities and a student-friendly campus. This impressive Cultural Auditorium Centre offers the perfect environment for collective inspiration, meaningful learning, and turning dreams into reality. At the end of the day, we all share the same vision: to create a better future with the highest quality of care for our citizens, based on reliable and up-to-date scientific information.

I would like to extend a warm welcome to our students, both from Cyprus and abroad. You are our beacon of hope for the future of health and well-being. We take great pride in the fact that you have chosen to study at this prestigious European university in Cyprus. This Congress provides you with unique opportunities to learn about the latest research and network with experts and professors, helping you shape the future of cutting-edge medical science and technology. Inspired by the values of your university – such as inclusion, equality, and diversity – you have the power to make the world a better place by practising medicine with compassion, dignity, empathy, and respect for humanity.

I would like to assure you all of the ongoing support of the Ministry of Health for events such as this, where esteemed experts gather to engage in rich dialogue and promote continuing medical education. The Ministry of Health is at the forefront of prioritising actions to tackle the challenges we face in public health. We know that infectious diseases do not recognise borders, which is why we must work together through political dialogue and commitment to address our common threats.

The lessons learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic highlight the importance of solidarity, cutting-edge science, and collaboration between politics, academia, and civil society in order to deal with future health threats more effectively. Non-communicable diseases and unhealthy behaviours, such as smoking, physical inactivity, and the consumption of processed foods, continue to be a burden and a challenge to the sustainability of our healthcare system. I am proud to say that the Ministry of Health has played a pivotal role in the implementation of the robust General Healthcare System in 2019, with strong and accessible primary healthcare infrastructure and universal healthcare coverage for the population of Cyprus. With a resilient healthcare system and a coordinated multisectoral approach, we are better equipped to tackle and manage these threats to the health of our population.

Last but not least, I would like to extend my special thanks and appreciation to Professor Ioannis Patrikios, Associate Dean of the EUC Medical School, for his unwavering commitment to education and research, and his tireless efforts to promote scientific excellence by organising this unique Congress at EUC every year.

I also acknowledge the incredible contribution of Professor Elizabeth Johnson, Dean of the Medical School, and her entire team, for providing strong governance and leadership in the education of our future doctors. A heartfelt thank you to the Pancyprian Medical Association for its continued and unwavering support for education, to all our sponsors of this event, and to the senior administration of EUC. This Congress is taking place today thanks to all of your concerted efforts.

Dear guests,

I wish you all the best for a successful and fruitful Congress. Over the next few days, I hope you will have the chance to enjoy some breathtaking scenery, Cypriot hospitality, and traditional cuisine on our beautiful, small, yet divided Mediterranean island. Let us all unite in a wish for peace, health, stability, and prosperity in our region and throughout the world.