Excellencies, co-chairs and members of the Technical Committees, ladies and gentlemen,
Good evening
It is a pleasure to be here for this Open Day and to celebrate the people committed to the Technical Committees. Much of what you do happens quietly, away from public attention. However, your work has strengthened my belief in the importance of your contribution to the Cyprus issue.
Earlier this year, with support from the United Kingdom, we gather in Wilton Park. It was a valuable opportunity to reflect together on achievements, challenges, and future possibilities. You showed a sense of purpose, a shared determination to improve lives and a genuine willingness to listen, exchange ideas, and find practical ways forward.
Over the years, the Technical Committees have played a crucial role in fostering dialogue, cooperation, and mutual understanding between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots. Through your work, you have demonstrated that coexistence based on respect, tolerance, and willingness to engage, is possible.
Your efforts have helped preserve Cyprus's rich cultural heritage, strengthened cooperation in public health, advanced environmental initiatives, and supported many other practical projects that touch the lives of communities across the island. These achievements may not always make headlines, but they matter deeply.
I would like to sincerely thank you for all the work you have done since 2008, when the Technical Committees were first established, and throughout the years since. Your voluntary service, given in your personal capacity, speaks volumes about your dedication, selflessness, and unwavering commitment. Your contributions have been invaluable, and your willingness to give your time and expertise so generously is deeply appreciated.
As the United Nations continues to support efforts in Cyprus, I encourage you all to keep meeting, to keep building bridges, to promote a shared vision for the future. Your dedication and perseverance are an inspiration and a reminder that a solution is possible.
To everyone attending today, I encourage you all to engage actively with the Technical Committees and to learn more about their work. I hope you will leave this evening’s event with a deeper appreciation of what can be achieved when people come together to address shared challenges.
I am convinced that dialogue and cooperation with a shared purpose is needed in Cyprus. Important progress happens through relationships that are built over time, through dialogue, and continued engagement with one another. And the Technical Committees are the best example in Cyprus. My sincere congratulations.
Thank you.
