Nicosia: EXIT, a student movement for freedom and peace in the Balkans which evolved into an international music festival, has announced its decision to withdraw from an invitation for an event in the Turkish-occupied areas of Cyprus. In a statement, the festival organizers highlighted their initial lack of understanding regarding the ongoing impact of historical conflicts on the island.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the festival's press release acknowledged the complexity and sensitivity of the situation surrounding the Nexus project in Turkish-occupied Cyprus. The organizers noted that after the event was announced, they engaged with various stakeholders to better understand the implications of their participation. This led them to reconsider their involvement, given the historical and emotional significance of the event's proposed location near Kyrenia and Kyrenia Castle, especially for the Greek Cypriot community.
EXIT expressed regret for initially agreeing to participate and emphasized their intention to foster unity rather than division. The festival clarified that its decision to withdraw was not directed against any community or cultural scene on the island. Instead, it was a reflection of their commitment to ensuring that their events serve as platforms for bringing people together.
The division of Cyprus dates back to 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied the northern third of the island. Despite numerous attempts at peace talks facilitated by the United Nations, a resolution has yet to be reached. The most recent discussions, held in Crans-Montana in July 2017, ended without agreement.