Religious leaders in Cyprus came together with Eide

Religious leaders in Cyprus who are in collaboration for a while, met with the UN Secretary General’s Special Adviser on Cyprus Espen Barth Eide.

The head of the Religious Affairs Prof. Dr. Talip Atalay, Greek Cypriot Archbishop Hrisostomos II, Armenian Archbishop Nareg, Maronite Archbishop Youssef Soueif and the Latin Patriarchal Vicar Jerzy Kraj came together at a special lunch hosted by the Swedish Ambassador Klas Gierow, in his residence in Nicosia.

Following the meeting, Eide told members of the press that the meeting was very interesting and positive and the religious leaders were working closely to support reunification. “This island is an island of many faiths and people of different religions but without any form of religious conflict,” said Eide.

Eide stressed that the religious leaders are supporting peace and unity in the island.

Speaking at the meeting President of Religious Affairs Prof.Dr.Talip Atalay stated that the association of religious leaders on the island is important not only for Cyprus but also for the whole world.

Atalay also stated that he will give his utmost support to both leaders for an acceptable peace for both communities.

In his speech Archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Church Hrisostomos II said: “As the religious leaders, we agree on all issues and we give our blessings to the two leaders to achieve a solution, and we will contribute towards that end so that our people will live together again in peace”.

In his turn, Maronite Archbishop Yussef Sweif expressed his support to the ongoing Cyprus peace talks.