Andri Anastasiades and Meral Akinci attend a bicommunal concert by young musicians

Soloist at the concert was Wolfgang Schroeder, violin, and Artistic Director George Kountouris.

“It is a great pleasure to be here in this concert with Meral,” said Ms. Anastasiadis, adding that “this is one of many steps that prompt us together to find a solution to the Cyprus problem.”

“I believe that women can do a lot and that we are part of the solution to our problem. My wish is to have a solution to the problem this year, “she added.

On her part, Meral Akinci said that women are part of the population and have the need for opportunities to put all their power, knowledge and enthusiasm to solve the Cyprus problem.

Ms. Akinci thanked the Bicommunal Technical Committee on Culture for the concert, which was under its auspices, as well as the young musicians.

In her address, Co-President of the Bicommunal Technical Committee Androulla Vasiliou said “we want to hope that the solution to the Cyprus problem and the reunification of our island is not far.”

However, she added, for the eventual solution to be consolidated and stand the test of time, political will and cooperation from the political leaders will not suffice. “We will need to already create the proper climate between our people. Us all, and especially younger people, will need to believe in the solution and the peaceful coexistence, as well as the cooperation between the two communities. We must believe that, together, we will be able to work towards and create our mutual future, in our mutual homeland, Cyprus”, she said.

“We believe that already starting a cooperation between the two communities through the different arts, such as music, dance, theatre, visual arts and poetry, can offer a great means of creating a climate of mutual trust and cooperation. It is for this reason that we have already encouraged and supported several such events and plan even more of these for the near future. We believe that the participation of as many citizens as possible in these events will have very positive results”, she added.

In his address Co-President of the Bicommunal Technical Committee Kani Kanol said “we fully understand the role of art and artists and particularly young artists in creating a free, independent, democratic and bright equal future.”

He welcomed with great enthusiasm the effort made by young musicians from the two communities who have worked together.

UN special adviser to Secretary-General for Cyprus, Espen Barth Eide, attended the concert.

The Republic of Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and occupied its northern third. Peace talks are currently underway to find a negotiated settlement that will reunite the country, under a federal roof.