Nicosia: Dozens of Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot volunteers came together to clean the bastions of the Venetian walls of Nicosia as part of the bicommunal environmental initiative "Let's Do It! Nicosia 2026." The event, which took place on Saturday morning, was organized by "Let's Do It! Cyprus" in collaboration with the Turkish Cypriot organization "Green Peace Movement" (Yesil Baris Hareketi - YBH) as part of World Cleanup Day. The initiative received support from the High Commission of India and the Embassy of Ireland.

According to Cyprus News Agency, World Cleanup Day is recognized by the United Nations as an international day to tackle waste and environmental pollution, observed annually on September 20. The "Let's Do It! Nicosia 2026" initiative began simultaneously at 09:30 from two historic locations in Nicosia's center: Faneromeni Church and the Byk Han. Volunteers from both Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities carried out cleanup operations along the Venetian walls and later gathered at the Home for Cooperation.

Mayor of Nicosia, Charalambos Prountzos, emphasized the importance of the event within the framework of 'Let's Do It! Cyprus' and the broader efforts to clean up Nicosia and improve the environment. He highlighted the significant public participation, noting that approximately 100 individuals, including many children and young people, took part. Prountzos conveyed that society can effect change through participation and community mobilization, particularly in universal causes such as cleanliness and environmental protection.

Mehmet Harmanci, the 'mayor' of the Turkish-occupied part of Nicosia, expressed his satisfaction in joining the initiative, underscoring the need for cooperation on environmental issues that affect both sides of the city. He noted the importance of understanding and working together for the city's welfare. Harmanci shared that around 60 volunteers from the Turkish-occupied part participated this year, with numbers growing annually.

Prountzos reported that a significant amount of waste was collected, including 15 to 20 bags of non-biodegradable waste from a tributary of the Pedieos River, accumulated due to recent rains. The Cyprus News Agency (CNA) served as the media sponsor of the event.