Matthew was delighted to attend the annual Conservative Friends of Cyprus (CFC) New Year reception. 

As the Parliamentary Chairman of the CFC, Matthew attends the annual celebration where the traditional cutting of the Vasilopita takes place. The Vasilopita (Greek: Βασιλό6ιτα) is a New Year's Day bread or cake in Cyprus and many other areas in eastern Europe and the Balkans which contains a hidden coin or trinket which gives good luck to the receiver. On New Year's Day families cut the vasilopita to bless the house and bring good luck for the new year.

Also in attendance was Chipping Barnet MP Theresa Villiers, CFC Chairman Jason Charalambous, Europe Minister Chris Pincher, HE Mr Andreas Kakouris High Commissioner of Cyprus and His Eminence Archbishop Nikitas. 

Speaking at the event, Matthew recalled his many trips to Cyprus on both delegations and personal trips and reaffirmed his commitment to unifying the island.