The maintenance and restoration of cemeteries in Cyprus will now become a key focus of the Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage, according to Greek Cypriot co-chair Sotiris Ktoris.
Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides, and the Turkish Cypriot leader, Ersin Tatar, agreed inter alia on the restoration of cemeteries, during their first meeting in Cyprus after the informal meeting in broader format, in Geneva on March 17-18.
Ktoris noted that while the committee has previously carried out cemetery maintenance, the recent decision by both leaders gives this effort a more structured and systematic approach. “Cemeteries will now be a central pillar of our work,” he emphasized.
In a Facebook post, Ktoris described cemetery restoration as one of the most symbolic and morally significant actions for a society seeking reconciliation. “It is an act of respect for the memory of the dead and human dignity,” he stated.
He highlighted the deteriorating condition of many Christian and Muslim cemeteries across the island, citing neglect, vandalism, and decay. “This state of disrepair fuels bitterness, deepens mistrust between communities, and weakens efforts to build mutual confidence,” he warned.
The leaders’ decision to coordinate cemetery restoration, Ktoris added, holds powerful symbolic value. “It sends a clear message: the dead of all communities deserve dignity, and the living have a duty to preserve their memory.”
He concluded by stressing that protecting cemeteries is both an act of reconciliation and a reflection of cultural respect. “It is a silent but powerful step toward peace.”
( Source : CNA )
