UNFICYP fails to stop illegal activities in buffer zone

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Cyprus has expressed serious concern over the United Nations Peacekeeping Force's (UNFICYP) failure to stop illegal activities taking place in a stadium located in the buffer zone in Nicosia, despite repeated representations by the ministry.

In a press release on Thursday, the ministry stated that UNFICYP has not taken steps to terminate the illegal activity in the area, and has announced its intention to "allow" the use of the space. The ministry underlined that as the host country for UNFICYP and the owner of the plot of land where the illegal activities are taking place, the Republic of Cyprus has not given its consent or approval for any works or use of the said space.

The government further explained that the "buffer zone" is under the effective control of the Republic of Cyprus, which has temporarily suspended the exercise of its military jurisdiction solely to facilitate the execution of the peacekeeping force's mandate. The Republic of Cyprus, it added, "continues to exercise its civil jurisdiction within the 'buffer zone'."

The ministry expects UNFICYP to proceed with necessary actions to terminate and reverse the continued violations in the area. The UN peacekeeping force has responded by stating that it is in contact with officials regarding the issues raised with the use of the stadium.

Aleem Siddique, UNFICYP Spokesperson, told the Cyprus News Agency that the force is aware of the statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is in contact with officials to discuss the issues raised.

The government has repeatedly explained to UNFICYP the serious particularities presented by the wider area, due to the frequent violations of the status quo by the occupying army. The ministry's press release reiterated the expectation that UNFICYP will take necessary actions to terminate the illegal activity and reverse the continued violations in the area.

Source: Announcements