Stewart: "I Hope the Geneva Meeting Will Be Used as an Opportunity for Progress"

Speaking at the premiere of the documentary Together/Mazi - Run for Peace at the Ledra Palace Hotel last night, Stewart acknowledged that fundamental differences remain in the peace process but emphasized the importance of dialogue. The event, sponsored by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Office of the UN Secretary-General's Special Adviser on Cyprus (OSASG), was attended by UN officials and athletes. Following the opening speeches, the documentary was screened, and the evening continued with a Q&A session and a reception.

"This Event Holds Deep Meaning for Cyprus"

In his speech, Stewart highlighted that the inspirational Together/Mazi run brought together 250 participants from different parts of the island, including himself and his son. He described the event as a unique celebration of solidarity, friendship, and perseverance.

“What might be seen as a simple sports event elsewhere carries far greater significance here in Cyprus. This was a highly symbolic gathering of people who share the hope of an end to the island’s division,” Stewart stated. He emphasized the significance of the event’s message, as athletes from the farthest edges of the island ran towards the buffer zone, meeting in Europe's last divided capital, Nicosia.

"Sports transcend barriers. They bring people and communities together, helping to break down prejudices and build bridges," he added.

"I Hope the Geneva Meeting Will Be Used as an Opportunity for Progress"

Ahead of next week's informal meeting in Geneva, Stewart underscored the importance of such initiatives, stating:

"Although fundamental differences in the peace process persist, the fact that the parties are coming together again is a positive development. I hope they will seize the opportunity presented by the Geneva meeting to make progress on the Cyprus issue."

"The UN Supports the Establishment of a Technical Committee on Youth and Sports"

Highlighting the unifying power of sports, Stewart reiterated the UN’s support for the creation of a technical committee aimed at fostering trust between the two communities through youth and sports initiatives.

He also noted that the UN marks International Day of Sport for Development and Peace every year on April 6, and this event was an early celebration of that occasion. The primary goal, he emphasized, was to bring together men, women, young people, and individuals with disabilities from all corners of Cyprus through the spirit of sports.

Stewart expressed his gratitude to the Runite running group, which played a key role in organizing the event, and thanked all participants and contributors for making it a success.