For the United Nations family in Cyprus, supporting a comprehensive settlement remains our highest priority, UNFICYP`s Force Commander Kristin Lund has said.
Major General Lund addressed Monday an event at Ledra Palace in the buffer zone to celebrate the International Day of Peace which is observed around the world on September 21st.
“We remain committed to assisting the two sides in achieving the aspiration of both leaders to reach their shared goal of united federal Cyprus for all”, Lund pointed out, calling on everyone to strengthen their commitment for the reunification of Cyprus.
She went on to say that forty one years ago, the buffer zone became a part of this island’s life, however it was never intended to become a lasting barrier between the two sides, not was it meant to discourage Cypriots from the need for dialogue and for contact in the search for a lasting and comprehensive settlement.
Major General Lund also said that we should all take inspiration from the words of the young generation and the wisdom of the Second World War veterans. She pointed out that Greek and Turkish Cypriots fought side by side to win peace for us all and they exemplify how together Cypriots can unite for the greater good.
Cyprus was divided in 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third.
UN-backed talks are underway with the aim to reunite the island under a federal roof.
Referring to the World Peace Day Kristin Lund said that is an opportunity to reiterate our unwavering belief in non-violence, to call for a global ceasefire and remember those who continue to live in fear.
This year’s remembrance, she underlined, is especially poignant, truly heartbreaking, given the turmoil in this region, particularly in Syria from where we have seen a human tide of suffering washing ashore in Greece, Turkey and even Cyprus.
General Secretary of the Cyprus Veterans` Association, 92 year old Nicos Christodoulides said that Peace Day is a constant remembrance of how much we need to fight for the respection of peace all over the world which faces severe conflicts.
He added that especially today and especially in our region is very questionable whether ceasefire can be implemented. Christodoulides also pointed out that he feels honored that he fought in WWII along with fellow T/c soldier , adding that we will never stop defending peace and prosperity.
Young representatives from both communities on the island spoke about the role of the youth for peace in Cyprus.
Eleni Partakki said that all humans need and deserve peace adding that young people have the duty to fight for peace in Cyprus.
Ismail Ozgenic said that the youth from both communities have a role to play in the process of finding peace in Cyprus so that our country can become an example around the world.
Candles were lit and participants observed a minute of silence in the name of peace with a particular thought of our neighbors in our troubled region and in remembrance of the victims of World War II.