Progress in Cyprus is being underscored by the United Nations through bi-communal cooperation initiatives, as stated by Unficyp spokesperson Aleem Siddique on Wednesday. During a press briefing held at the Ledra Palace under the auspices of UNDP Cyprus, Siddique emphasised that collaboration remains feasible even when formal negotiations are on hold.
Bi-communal cooperation: UN’s Role in Fostering Collaboration
Siddique described the UN’s efforts as a collective endeavour, highlighting the coordination among UNDP Cyprus, Unficyp, and the Good Offices Mission. “The UN’s work here is a team effort,” he said, reinforcing the idea that these initiatives do not solely focus on the future but on how Cypriots can coexist and collaborate today.
Building Trust and Sustainable Development
Jakhongir Khaydarov, head of the UNDP Cyprus Office, elaborated on the agency’s mission, which centres on building trust, fostering cooperation, and promoting sustainable development. “Our work is guided by a simple truth: sustainable development and peace go hand in hand,” he noted. Khaydarov explained that collaboration among communities, whether in preserving shared heritage or improving local infrastructure, lays the groundwork for enduring peace and trust.
Successes in Cultural Heritage Restoration
A noteworthy example of successful cooperation is the Bicommunal Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage, which has received support from the European Union. Over the past 15 years, this committee has facilitated the restoration of more than 200 shared cultural sites. Engagement through community events, youth initiatives, and a digital heritage platform has also involved thousands of people in the process.
Infrastructure and Environmental Initiatives
In addition to cultural heritage, bi-communal cooperation has flourished in infrastructure and environmental projects, funded by the EU. Since 2018, the Local Infrastructure Facility has supported over 20 initiatives across Cyprus, addressing areas such as wastewater management, renewable energy, and health development.
- An 840-kilowatt solar energy system has been installed in Nicosia.
- The multicultural Kormakitis Centre has been established.
- New green space initiatives, like the Pedieos River/Kanlidere project, aim to enhance biodiversity and public access.
Furthermore, since 2008, the EU-supported facility has aided 13 technical committees focusing on various sectors, including culture, health, and the environment. These committees, comprising nearly 50% women, have yielded tangible results, such as facilitating vaccine transfers during the Covid-19 pandemic and establishing a permanent electricity interconnection between both sides.
Continued Diplomatic Efforts
The UN’s diplomatic initiatives persist through the Good Offices Mission, operational since 1964 and pivotal in promoting dialogue. The mission’s coordinator, Sergiy Illarionov, reported an uptick in engagement since 2023 under the guidance of the Secretary-General’s personal envoy, Maria Angela Holguin. New trust-building measures include youth programmes, demining projects, cultural restoration efforts, and discussions regarding additional crossing points.
“It is clear that achieving these initiatives will take persistence, some creativity, and most of all a willingness to compromise,” Illarionov remarked, emphasising the importance of collaboration in these undertakings.
Connecting Communities Through Civil Society
Unficyp’s civil affairs section is also active in connecting communities via partnerships with civil society, youth, and women’s groups. Abimbola Aina, chief of civil affairs, highlighted that these efforts align with UN Security Council Resolutions 1325 and 2250, which address Women, Peace and Security and Youth, Peace and Security.
One of the programmes, the UN Youth Champions for Environment and Peace, has engaged 142 young leaders and over 800 participants. Additionally, the “Building Bridges” initiative has linked more than 1,000 entrepreneurs, fostering collaboration and understanding among diverse communities.
Innovative Collaborations in the Fashion Industry
Among the programme’s successful outcomes is the Fashion Heritage Network Cyprus, where young designers from different communities collaborate to blend creativity with reconciliation. Aina noted, “Every partnership, every shared initiative, and every conversation contributes to what Cypriots are building together – a more peaceful, resilient, and united island.”
The ongoing efforts by the UN and its partners illustrate a commitment to fostering an environment where cooperation continues to thrive, even amidst challenges. As the initiatives unfold, they serve as a testament to the potential for unity and collaboration on the island of Cyprus.
