Stewart: "A Ray of Hope for a Solution Remains"

Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar and Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides attended the traditional year-end reception hosted by Stewart at the Ledra Palace Hotel in the buffer zone.

President Tatar, accompanied by his wife Sibel Tatar, was welcomed at the entrance by Stewart. After the arrival of Greek Cypriot leader Christodoulides, Stewart facilitated a brief conversation between the two leaders. The reception was attended by representatives from both sides of the island, including military and civil officials, political party representatives, religious leaders, diplomatic missions, attachés, civil society representatives, and other guests. Participants were presented with lapel pins in recognition of Human Rights Day.

Stewart’s Remarks

Addressing the attendees, Stewart expressed satisfaction at the presence of both leaders and reaffirmed his belief that, despite challenges in 2024, there remains a ray of hope for a solution to the Cyprus problem. He noted the recent informal meeting in New York, where the leaders agreed on opening new crossing points, a move he described as beneficial for the people and a positive step toward a resolution.

Highlighting the 60th anniversary of UNFICYP in 2024, the Canadian diplomat extended gratitude to all UN member states that have contributed to the peacekeeping mission since its establishment in 1964.

Stewart also acknowledged the efforts of bicommunal committees in fostering rapprochement between the communities and praised the work of the leaders' special representatives, Güneş Onar and Menelaos Menelaou, for their dedication to the process. Additionally, he thanked the European Union for its contributions and support for island-wide projects.

Following Stewart’s speech, he posed for photographs with Tatar and Christodoulides, symbolically joining hands in a gesture of unity.