Health Minister Neofytos Charalambides has called on the public to support a new nationwide blood‑donation initiative, saying the effort highlights the importance of solidarity and community responsibility.
Speaking at the launch of the “Blood Championship,” an initiative organised by the Cyprus Red Cross with the participation of the Cyprus Football Association, Charalambides praised the campaign as a “deeply human” effort aimed at strengthening the country’s blood‑donation culture.
He thanked the Red Cross for its long‑standing contribution to public health and singled out its president, Fotini Papadopoulou, for her role in promoting the initiative.
He also commended the football association for joining the effort, saying the partnership shows how sport can serve as a vehicle for social contribution.
Charalambides stressed that blood donation remains essential for patients undergoing surgery, those receiving hospital treatment and people battling chronic illness. “Blood cannot be produced or replaced — it can only be offered, from one person to another,” he said.
He noted that for a healthy donor, giving blood requires only a few minutes, but for the recipient it can mean “life, hope and a second chance.”
The minister said the campaign aims to mobilise the public and encourage more people to become regular donors, describing the initiative as a meeting point between humanitarian action and the world of sport.
He urged citizens to participate, saying the true “champions” are those who contribute to saving lives.