Cyprus, along with the Yianis Christodoulou Foundation and Konstantinos Argyros, broke the Guinness World Record!
With 4,073 people from all over Cyprus, the massive human chain became a powerful driving force and set a new international distinction yesterday, June 25, at the GSP Stadium in Nicosia.
Nicosia triumphantly surpassed the record held by the city of Kyoto, Japan—a city with 1.5 million residents in a country of 125 million—proving that a small country can indeed achieve challenging goals through cooperation.
Since yesterday, Cyprus has been celebrating the rhythms of Guinness World Records, creating a history of cooperation, solidarity, and volunteerism. The challenging record for the "Longest Alternating Human Chain Holding Wrists" for 1 minute became a reality, marking the initiative of the Yianis Christodoulou Foundation and Konstantinos Argyros a resounding success.
The human chain was energized by Konstantinos Argyros himself, who expressed his love for Cyprus and stated, "Cyprus holds a special place in my heart; I am always by your side!" He reminded everyone that there is still "Hope" for a better world filled with love and mutual support.
The chain included well-known personalities such as Elpida Iakovidou, Bishop Nikiforos of Kykkos, Koullis Nicolaou, officials from the Ministry of Education and teachers' organizations, and prominent businessmen. Notably, individuals with special abilities also participated, demonstrating strength and determination.
Mr. John Christodoulou, visibly moved, stated, "Today we show that it is not the size of the country that counts, but the size of the mind, the cooperation, and the vision. Today, 4,098 people and many volunteers gathered here despite the heat. Thank you all. Today, once again, we put Cyprus on the international map of achievements."
"We broke the record with a purpose. We held our wrists, looking backwards and forward. Just as we must not forget the past, we must always look to the future together. Unity, peace, cooperation, and strength."
"In 25 days, it will be 50 years since the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. We must find the strength and unity to resolve this if we do not want this situation to continue for another 50 years. My vision is for a free Cyprus. Anything is possible. We need our children and grandchildren to have a safe future."
The popular Andri Karantoni hosted the event, while the "Official Witness," according to Guinness guidelines, was the well-known Elly Symons from Australia with roots in Cyprus.
Guinness representatives, who travelled to Cyprus specifically for this purpose, along with 200 supervisors and volunteers, oversaw the chain's successful execution.
A spectacular concert followed for all participants, featuring the beloved Konstantinos Argyros, who captivated young and old, especially when he, adorned with the Cypriot flag, sang the Cypriot song "Eleftheros" while thousands of white scarves waved in the audience.
The Yianis Christodoulou Foundation, founded by Cypriot entrepreneur John Christodoulou, has been recognized internationally for its charitable work in education, welfare for vulnerable groups, and promotion of Cyprus abroad. Achieving the Guinness World Record marks another significant step in the Foundation's mission to positively impact society and promote Cyprus abroad.
The event received support from various entities, including the European University of Nicosia, Agios Nikolaos Water, Eurobank Cyprus, the Nicosia Tourism Board, and the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Elly Symons remarked, "This was a wonderful and historic moment for Cyprus, with so many young people present, holding hands for peace, which our beautiful island deserves."
