Today is a public holiday in Cyprus to mark Ochi Day - the anniversary of the day the Greek leader Ioannis Metaxas rejected the ultimatum made by Italian dictator Mussolini on October 28 1940.
Mussolini had demanded that Axis forces enter Greek territory and occupy certain unspecified "strategic locations" or otherwise face war. Metaxas stalwartly said ‘Ochi’ which simply means ‘No’.
Metaxas had deliberately done his best to keep Greece neutral in the early months of World War II, but the ultimatum tipped any chance of allegiance and Greece became allied with Great Britain.
Normally the day sees a number of church services, together with school and military parades, attracting thousands of spectators taking place across Cyprus. However due to the current coronavirus restrictions this year's events will be limited or have been cancelled entirely.
Ochi Day (sometimes spelt Ohi or Oxi) is celebrated throughout Greece, Cyprus and the Greek communities around the world annually on the 28th October.
As this is a public holiday, bank and government offices will be closed. Many businesses, but not all, will also be shut for the day.
Public holiday in Cyprus today - Ochi Day
Author: NewsinCyprus.com
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