Nicosia: The co-chair of the Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage (TCCH), Sotos Ktoris, emphasized that respect for the dead is a crucial prerequisite for fostering the trust necessary to create a future grounded in mutual respect and peaceful coexistence in Cyprus. Restoration efforts are underway at over 70 cemeteries across the island.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Ktoris highlighted in a Facebook post that cemeteries have been affected by fanaticism, vandalism, and the passage of time. The ongoing restoration work aims to reverse this damage with the involvement of local communities. Activities include restoring perimeter walls, clearing overgrown vegetation, and replacing destroyed or lost crosses, Muslim gravestones, and other burial features.
Ktoris stated that restoring cemeteries is an act of respect for the memory and dignity of both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, contributing to the restoration of the identity and historical significance of these sites. He clarified that while respect for the dead will not resolve the Cyprus issue, it is essential for building the climate of trust necessary for a shared future of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Various UN-led peace negotiations have yet to yield results due to Turkish intransigence, with the latest round in July 2017 at Crans-Montana ending without success.
The Bicommunal Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage, established in April 2008, is committed to preserving the island's cultural heritage. Since 2012, with EU and UNDP support, it has restored and protected over 100 cultural heritage sites across Cyprus.